Associations to the word «Mainspring»
Wiktionary
MAINSPRING, noun. The principal spring of a clockwork mechanism, that drives it by uncoiling.
MAINSPRING, noun. (figuratively) The most important reason for something.
Dictionary definition
MAINSPRING, noun. The most important spring in a mechanical device (especially a clock or watch); as it uncoils it drives the mechanism.
Wise words
We should have a great fewer disputes in the world if words
were taken for what they are, the signs of our ideas only,
and not for things themselves.