linchpin vs pillar

linchpin

noun
  • A central cohesive source of stability and security; a person or thing that is critical to a system or organisation. 

  • A pin inserted through holes at the end of an axle or shaft, so as to secure a wheel or shaft-mounted device. 

verb
  • To adopt as, or serve as, a central cohesive source of stability and security. 

pillar

noun
  • An essential part of something that provides support. 

  • A portable ornamental column, formerly carried before a cardinal, as emblematic of his support to the church. 

  • A large post, often used as supporting architecture. 

  • The centre of the volta, ring, or manege ground, around which a horse turns. 

  • The body from the hips over the core to the shoulders. 

  • Something resembling such a structure. 

verb
  • To provide with pillars or added strength as if from pillars. 

How often have the words linchpin and pillar occurred in a corpus of books? (source: Google Ngram Viewer )