Definition
A small and seemingly insignificant addition to a burden that renders it too much to bear; the small thing which causes failure, or causes inability or unwillingness to endure any more of something.
Origins
Possibly from the proverb, recorded by Thomas Fuller in his Gnomologia (1732) as “Tis the last feather that breaks the horse's back.” This comes from an Arab proverb about loading up a camel beyond its capacity to move.
In Context
- "As the last straw breaks the laden camel's back, this piece of underground information crushed the sinking spirits of Mr. Dombey."
Also Said As
See Also
- final straw
- last straw
- the last drop makes the cup run over