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Definition

A thing or situation which is almost certain to eventually lead to an accident.

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Origins

Attested 1930s.

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In Context

  • "Someone needs to repair that worn-out old bridge. It's an accident waiting to happen!"
  • "Maguire looked totally devoid of confidence, a lost soul and an accident waiting to happen, which it eventually did."
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See Also

  • court disaster
  • -in-waiting
  • time bomb
  • trainwreck in slow motion