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
All our words from loose using have lost their edge.