noun · verb · 5 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot
Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.
Sound
Pronunciation
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CMU ARPABET:S P R IH1 NG B AO2 R D
Digits mark lexical stress: 1 primary, 2 secondary, 0 unstressed.
1
noun
Meaning 1
A board consisting of a flexible, springy, cantilevered platform that propels one into the air, used for diving or gymnastics.
Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract
No example sentence was provided for this meaning.
Meaning relationships
Synonyms: none provided
Antonyms: none provided
2
noun
Meaning 2
Something that acts as a catalyst to begin or accelerate an action or growth.
Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract
Usage: figuratively
Examples
The opportunity acted as a springboard for their success.
Meaning relationships
Synonyms: none provided
Antonyms: none provided
3
verb
Meaning 3
To launch or propel as if from a springboard, especially toward political office.
Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract
Usage: transitive
No example sentence was provided for this meaning.
Meaning relationships
Synonyms: none provided
Antonyms: none provided
4
noun
Meaning 4
a beginning from which an enterprise is launched
Definition source: Princeton WordNet 3.0
Examples
he uses other people's ideas as a springboard for his own
reality provides the jumping-off point for his illusions
the point of departure of international comparison cannot be an institution but must be the function it carries out
Meaning relationships
Synonyms: jumping-off point, point of departure
Antonyms: none provided
Broader terms: beginning, start, commencement
5
noun
Meaning 5
a flexible board for jumping upward
Definition source: Princeton WordNet 3.0
No example sentence was provided for this meaning.
Meaning relationships
Synonyms: none provided
Antonyms: none provided
Broader terms: board
Narrower terms: diving board
History
Etymology
From spring + board.
Across languages
Translations
72 source translations are retained for this English entry.