Definition of hairbreadth
(Entry 1 of 2)
: a very small distance or margin
hairbreadth
adjectiveDefinition of hairbreadth (Entry 2 of 2)
: very narrow : close a hairbreadth escape
Keep scrolling for more
Keep scrolling for more
Test Your Vocabulary
Slippery Words Quiz—Changing with the Times
- What is an earlier meaning of nice?

Test your visual vocabulary with our 10-question challenge!
TAKE THE QUIZ
Spell words. Make bears.
TAKE THE QUIZLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridgedWords at Play
Ask the Editors
Word Games
Share hairbreadth
Time Traveler for hairbreadth
The first known use of hairbreadth was in 1561
See more words from the same year