head of steam

noun phrase

: strong driving force : momentum
frequent rallies helped the movement develop a head of steam

Examples of head of steam in a Sentence

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.
Heat it to a full head of steam and hold the nozzle at least 6 inches away from the fabric for a few minutes. Mary Marlowe Leverette, Southern Living, 9 Feb. 2026 The Hornets are only one game behind with a full head of steam to push for play-in position — a challenger the Bulls should embrace with open arms. Julia Poe, Chicago Tribune, 4 Feb. 2026 Walker is a bowling ball of a back who always seems to have a head of steam and averages more than three yards per rush after contact, per PFF. Andrew Callahan, Boston Herald, 29 Jan. 2026 With a full head of steam, Hill beat those defenders to the edge. Daniel Popper, New York Times, 26 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for head of steam

Word History

First Known Use

1838, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of head of steam was in 1838

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Cite this Entry

“Head of steam.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/head%20of%20steam. Accessed 19 Feb. 2026.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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