breaking point

noun

Synonyms of breaking pointnext
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.
Separate research has shown that half of workers are at breaking point right now. Orianna Rosa Royle, Fortune, 13 Mar. 2026 For English club teams and the national side, there is a sense that players are at breaking point. Tim Spiers, New York Times, 12 Mar. 2026 What was the breaking point in both of those relationships? Chris Murphy, Vanity Fair, 23 Feb. 2026 Windows is at breaking point, and Microsoft knows it. Tom Warren, The Verge, 29 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for breaking point

Word History

First Known Use

1851, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of breaking point was in 1851

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Cite this Entry

“Breaking point.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/breaking%20point. Accessed 16 Mar. 2026.

Medical Definition

breaking point

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