springboard

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   a flexible board that bends and rebounds to propel a diver or gymnast into the air

   The diver paused at the end of the springboard before beginning her approach.

2. 2
   noun

   something that provides an opportunity, starting point, or impetus for further action or success

   The internship became a springboard for his career in engineering.

A compound of spring + board, first naming a flexible board that rebounds under a jumper's weight. The figurative sense treats an opportunity, event, or idea as a platform that launches someone toward a later action or achievement.

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