tipping point

American  

noun

1. the point at which an issue, idea, product, etc., crosses a certain threshhold and gains significant momentum, triggered by some minor factor or change.

2. the point in a situation at which a minor development precipitates a crisis.

   Every infected person brings us closer to the tipping point, when the outbreak becomes an epidemic.

3. Physics. the point at which an object is no longer balanced, and adding a small amount of weight can cause it to topple.

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tipping point British  

/ ˈtɪpɪŋ /

noun

1. the crisis stage in a process, when a significant change takes place

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Etymology

Origin of tipping point

First recorded in 1955–60

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

tipping point

The view that 5% on the 10-year Treasury is a tipping point for stocks is too simplistic.

From Barron's ● Aug. 22, 2026

The property became a tipping point, and residents such as JoAnn Koplin pushed for historic protections so other homes wouldn’t be demolished.

From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 5, 2026

It feels like a tipping point from standalone Hulu to the Disney+ bundle, where a $1-a-month upgrade gets you significantly more for your money.

From MarketWatch ● Jul. 31, 2026

"I think Monday's gathering indicates this movement may have crossed a tipping point," Verma says.

From BBC ● Jul. 23, 2026

As in: If we get one C on our report cards, I’m afraid Mom will reach her tipping point and that will be the end of basketball.

From "The Crossover" by Kwame Alexander