breaking point

noun

1
: the point at which a person gives way under stress
2
: the point at which a situation becomes critical
3
: the point at which something loses force or validity
stretch the rules to the breaking point

Examples of breaking point in a Sentence

tensions between the two nations had risen to the breaking point
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
If the Trump administration continues to create a sense of uncertainty about the U.S. security guarantee to South Korea, for example, leaders in Seoul could reach a breaking point. Florence Gaub, Foreign Affairs, 24 June 2025 Plans from earlier this month will hit a breaking point. Liz Simmons, StyleCaster, 24 June 2025 Things reached a breaking point during a baking session in her kitchen. Ashley Vega, People.com, 22 June 2025 Israeli military assaults on the Gaza Strip’s hospitals have ramped up in recent weeks to the highest level so far this year, bringing a health system already weakened by 19 months of war to a breaking point. Nick Duffy, NBC news, 15 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for breaking point

Word History

First Known Use

1865, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of breaking point was in 1865

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Cite this Entry

“Breaking point.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/breaking%20point. Accessed 11 Jul. 2025.

Medical Definition

breaking point

noun
: the point at which a person gives way under stress
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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