perfect storm

noun

: a critical or disastrous situation created by a powerful concurrence of factors

Examples of perfect storm 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.
Julie Brines, a sociologist at the University of Washington agrees with Palmer that the confluence of holiday stress and New Year’s resolutions create a perfect storm for initiating divorce. Paul Smaglik, Discover Magazine, 31 Jan. 2025 But the proximity to Madison Square Garden and the more affordable ticket prices in Brooklyn create a perfect storm for a sea of orange and blue in the stands. Kristian Winfield, New York Daily News, 22 Jan. 2025 All in all, a perfect storm for a disaster The accident drew national attention. Mike Klingaman, Baltimore Sun, 21 Jan. 2025 Everyone here is affected Today infernos whipped by a perfect storm of high winds and drought conditions hit the Western edges of the United States especially hard. Jennifer Jolly, USA TODAY, 17 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for perfect storm 

Word History

First Known Use

1998, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of perfect storm was in 1998

Dictionary Entries Near perfect storm

Cite this Entry

“Perfect storm.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/perfect%20storm. Accessed 16 Feb. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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