Achilles' heels

Definition of Achilles' heelsnext
plural of Achilles' heel
as in soft spots
a vulnerable point the food supply proved to be the nation's Achilles' heel in its defense against terrorist attacks

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Recent Examples of Synonyms for Achilles' heels
Noun
  • The challenges certainly will be there, with the Heat decidedly having shifted from the soft spots of their schedule, the next six against the Hornets, Los Angeles Lakers, Houston Rockets, San Antonio Spurs and then a pair against the Cleveland Cavaliers.
    Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 16 Mar. 2026
  • The narrators have soft spots for various failings.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 12 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • Whether or not 2024 second-round pick Renardo Green gets traded in the next month, the 49ers seem committed to young defensive backs, including safeties Malik Mustapha, Ji’Ayir Brown and Marques Sigle.
    Cam Inman, Mercury News, 14 Mar. 2026
  • So far, Sullivan has signed nine defensive backs.
    Barry Jackson, Miami Herald, 14 Mar. 2026
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.

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Cite this Entry

“Achilles' heels.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/Achilles%27%20heels. Accessed 22 Mar. 2026.

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