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.
In episode five, that difficulty adjusting is evident and reaches a breaking point. Lexy Perez, HollywoodReporter, 30 Aug. 2025 By 2016, the backlash had reached a breaking point, and NBC quietly stopped producing the series, per KQED. Emily Blackwood, People.com, 27 Aug. 2025 Riley reached a breaking point and fled to California. William Robin, New Yorker, 26 Aug. 2025 With talks getting nowhere, Parsons' growing frustrations reached their breaking point during training camp. Kevin McCormick, MSNBC Newsweek, 19 Aug. 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 9 Sep. 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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