vitals

Noun

 * 1)  Those organs of the body that are essential for life.
 * 2)  Those parts of a system without which it cannot function.
 * 3)  Vital signs.

Quotations

 * 2003 David R Woodward - Trial by Friendship: Anglo-American Relations, 1917-1918
 * This final victory can only be had by reaching the vitals of Germany and by destroying her armed forces.
 * This final victory can only be had by reaching the vitals of Germany and by destroying her armed forces.