last straw

noun

: the last of a series (as of events or indignities) that brings one beyond the point of endurance

Examples of last straw in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Sean Murphy – The massive three-team deal that sent Murphy to the Braves in 2022 was the final last straw for many A’s fans after seeing Matt Olson, Matt Chapman and others shed for payroll reasons that spring. Laurence Miedema, The Mercury News, 1 Oct. 2024 Steven Hoover, Margate Biden’s last straw The timing of President Biden’s case of Covid could not have been scripted better. Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 27 July 2024 Some had long opposed rising authoritarianism, and the invasion was a last straw. Mary Ilyushina, Washington Post, 13 Feb. 2023 That was a breaking point last straw for Mack. CBS News, 27 Sep. 2022 See all Example Sentences for last straw 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'last straw.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

from the fable of the last straw that broke the camel's back when added to its burden

First Known Use

1845, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of last straw was in 1845

Dictionary Entries Near last straw

Cite this Entry

“Last straw.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/last%20straw. Accessed 5 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

last straw

noun
: the last of a series (as of events or troubles) that causes one to give up or lose patience
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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