a fixed pin or short axis, on the end of which a wheel or other body turns.-the end of a shaft or arbor which rests and turns in a support; as, the pivot of an arbor in a watch.-hence, figuratively: a turning point or condition; that on which important results depend; as, the pivot of an enterprise.-the officer or soldier who simply turns in his place whike the company or line moves around him in wheeling; -- called also pivot man.-to place on a pivot.