point of departure

noun phrase

: a starting point especially in a discussion

Examples of point of departure in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The rough edge of the tree in the lower corner grounds the moment, marking the exact point of departure. — Scott Travers, Forbes.com, 13 Apr. 2026 Think of conventional decorating advice as a point of departure, not a set of rules. — Kristin Hohenadel, The Spruce, 23 June 2026 The strain is found primarily in Argentina, the ship’s point of departure. — Helen Branswell, STAT, 7 May 2026 Montreal was our point of departure, an enchanting city with fantastic food and charming denizens. — Los Angeles Times, 3 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for point of departure

Word History

First Known Use

1804, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of point of departure was in 1804

Rhymes for point of departure

See All Rhymes for point of departure

Browse Nearby Words

point of contention
point of departure
point of honor
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Point of departure.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/point%20of%20departure. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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