(adj) of extreme importance; vital to the resolution of a crisis, Syn. important, Ant. noncrucial, Example:a crucial moment in his career; a crucial election; a crucial issue for women
a. [ F. crucial, fr. L. crux, crucis, cross, torture. See Cross. ] 1. Having the form of a cross; appertaining to a cross; cruciform; intersecting; as, crucial ligaments; a crucial incision. [ 1913 Webster ]
2. Severe; trying or searching, as if bringing to the cross; decisive; as, a crucial test. [ 1913 Webster ]