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

Relevance

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of Synonyms for Achilles' heels
Noun
  • Look for citrus fruits that feel firm and smooth, with no soft spots or bruises.
    Zia Sherrell, Health, 7 Feb. 2026
  • Look for firm mushrooms that are free of soft spots or mold.
    Cathy Thomas, Oc Register, 26 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • Sewald came to the Diamondbacks from the Seattle Mariners in a trade deadline deal in 2023 and helped the D-backs make a surprise run to the Fall Classic before losing to the Texas Rangers in five games.
    Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 15 Feb. 2026
  • Etheridge, a former safety at Auburn, joined the Canes as defensive pass game coordinator and defensive backs coach last offseason, after three years at Auburn and one year at Houston.
    Barry Jackson, Miami Herald, 13 Feb. 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.

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Achilles' heels.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/Achilles%27%20heels. Accessed 16 Feb. 2026.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!