pressure point

American  

noun

1. a point on the skin that is extremely sensitive to pressure because of the presence of pressure-sensing organs.

2. a point on the body where relatively slight pressure serves to press an artery lying close to the surface against underlying bony tissue, so as to arrest the flow of blood into a part.

3. a sensitive, crucial area or issue against which concerted persuasion or pressure tactics can be wielded to produce a desired result.

   Lobbyists attempt to find the pressure points of government.

---

pressure point British  

noun

1. any of several points on the body above an artery that, when firmly pressed, will control bleeding from the artery at a point farther away from the heart

---

Etymology

Origin of pressure point

First recorded in 1875–80

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

pressure point

She said the new law showed the government was "taking seriously that this is a pressure point for families"

From BBC ● Sep. 2, 2026

And in a surprising twist, the settlement may turn Meta itself into yet another pressure point on the social media industry writ large.

From Slate ● Aug. 26, 2026

Elevated crude oil prices have been a major pressure point for many companies’ margins.

From Barron's ● Jul. 1, 2026

The well-timed bets have confounded a market in which the price of oil has become a strategic pressure point for both the U.S. and Iran.

From The Wall Street Journal ● May 20, 2026

Richard was to tap a pressure point on his chest while reaching out to me with his other hand, and Mother was to hold a point in her palm while touching Richard with her foot.

From "Educated" by Tara Westover