tipping point

noun

: the critical point in a situation, process, or system beyond which a significant and often unstoppable effect or change takes place

Examples of tipping point 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.
At that tipping point, the only solution is for oil prices to surge, destroying enough demand for oil that the market can return to equilibrium. — David Goldman, CNN Money, 3 Aug. 2026 The Hurricanes hope his performance at Missouri is just the tipping point of what Wilson can provide a team. — Jordan McPherson, Miami Herald, 3 Aug. 2026 Chanard said the aquifer reached a tipping point in 2021, when the compaction abruptly transitioned to irreversible. — Alula Alderson, Sacbee.com, 2 Aug. 2026 After years of elevated borrowing costs and persistent inflation, a lot of borrowers are finding themselves at that tipping point right now. — Angelica Leicht, CBS News, 31 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for tipping point

Word History

First Known Use

1959, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of tipping point was in 1959

Rhymes for tipping point

See All Rhymes for tipping point

Browse Nearby Words

tippet
tipping point
tipple
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Cite this Entry

“Tipping point.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/tipping%20point. Accessed 8 Aug. 2026.

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