Definition of the word pivot

The word "pivot" originates from the French word "pivoter," which means "to turn on a point." The French word, in turn, came from the Latin word "pupulus," which referred to a wheelless cart that served as a pivoting axis for turning in tight spaces. In the 19th century, the word "pivot" was adopted by the British Army to describe the central or prominent figure in a formation, particularly in a tactical maneuver where soldiers turn on one foot or leg, pivoting in place. This military usage of "pivot" to describe the central figure in a formation also influenced the use of the word in business contexts. In 1961, economics professor Theodore Levitt coined the term "market pivot" to describe a major shift in a company's product or business strategy in response to changing market conditions or technologies. This idea of a "pivot" provided a strategic framework for startups and small businesses to test and iterate their business models in order to remain competitive and profitable. Today, the concept of a "pivot" has expanded beyond business and into various aspects of life, from education to sports, where it refers to a decisive or transformative action that helps to achieve a desired outcome. Overall, the origin of the word "pivot" sheds light on its ongoing utility in business and everyday life – it remains a powerful metaphor for change, adaptability, and innovation.