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flash point

noun

Definition of flash point

1 :the lowest temperature at which vapors above a volatile combustible substance ignite in air when exposed to flame
2 :a point at which someone or something bursts suddenly into action or being
3 :tinderbox 2

See flash point defined for English-language learners

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Examples of flash point in a Sentence

  1. The city became a flash point as political tensions grew.

  2. The situation reached a flash point when union leaders urged the workers to protest.

First Known Use of flash point

1878

flash point Synonyms

Synonyms
tinderbox, powder keg, time bomb, volcano
Related Words
hot button, third rail

FLASH POINT Defined for English Language Learners

flash point

noun

Definition of flash point for English Language Learners

  • : a point, place, or situation in which sudden anger or violence could happen

Learn More about flash point

  1. See words that rhyme with flash point Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for flash point Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about flash point

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Examples: flash point in a Sentence