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Synonyms

defining moment

American  

noun

  1. a point at which the essential nature or character of a person, group, etc., is revealed or identified.


Etymology

Origin of defining moment

First recorded in 1980–85

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

“This is the defining moment for EnergyX,” he said.

From The Wall Street Journal Jul. 6, 2026

The defining moment in Victor Marx’s surreal quest to be Colorado’s governor came a few weeks ago, during a rare sit-down interview with a journalist.

From Slate Jun. 29, 2026

A defining moment in their meeting is when Ruth reads part of a Tennessee Williams quote rendered in cross-stitch.

From Salon Jun. 18, 2026

“This is a defining moment for Fox and a natural extension and a natural extension of the deliberate and focused strategy we have been executing for nearly a decade, “ Fox Corp.

From Los Angeles Times Jun. 15, 2026

My time in Brooklyn had become a defining moment for me.

From "How Dare the Sun Rise" by Sandra Uwiringiyimana

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