soft spot

noun

1
: a sentimental weakness : a strong liking for someone or something
They both have a soft spot for puppies. [=like puppies very much]
2
: a vulnerable point
a soft spot in the defense system

Examples of soft spot in a Sentence

They found a soft spot in the enemy's defenses. a huge trade imbalance continued to be the soft spot in the nation's economy
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.
Does Kate Middleton have a soft spot for Prince Harry & Meghan Markle? Lea Veloso, StyleCaster, 21 May 2025 Will Howard had ‘soft spot’ for Pittsburgh Though prospects came from around the country to participate in minicamp, Downingtown, Pa., native Will Howard jumped in his car and made a casual, four-hour drive across the state to join his new team. Mike Defabo, New York Times, 12 May 2025 Despite ruining his outdoor cushions, Joyce has developed quite a soft spot for Gary. Thomas G. Moukawsher, MSNBC Newsweek, 24 Apr. 2025 Check for damage by looking for soft spots, cracks or loose tiles. Kara McGinley, USA Today, 17 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for soft spot

Word History

First Known Use

1770, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of soft spot was in 1770

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Soft spot.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/soft%20spot. Accessed 28 May. 2025.

Medical Definition

soft spot

noun
: a fontanel of a fetal or young skull
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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