Achilles' heel

noun

Definition of Achilles' heelnext
as in back
a vulnerable point the food supply proved to be the nation's Achilles' heel in its defense against terrorist attacks

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of Achilles' heel For years, spacing has been an Achilles' heel, often clogging driving lanes for LeBron. — Ricardo Klein, MSNBC Newsweek, 16 Sep. 2025 The capability to control and execute—your greatest strength—has become your Achilles' heel. — Christina Greenberg, Forbes.com, 26 Feb. 2026 Starts have been the Achilles' heel for Mercedes, and especially Antonelli this season, something that was seen on Saturday morning during the Sprint. — Matt Reigle Outkick, FOXNews.com, 2 May 2026 With Jesse Minter stepping in to replace the legendary John Harbaugh, the pressure is on General Manager Eric DeCosta to provide his new coach with the tools necessary to fix a unit that proved to be the team's Achilles' heel last season. — Cbs Baltimore Staff, CBS News, 20 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for Achilles' heel
Recent Examples of Synonyms for Achilles' heel
  1. back
  2. soft spot
Noun
  • Remain out of the water to avoid hazardous surf and NEVER turn your back on the ocean If travel is required, allow extra time as some roads may be closed.
    — Bay Area Weather Report, Mercury News, 8 July 2026
  • They’re also equipped with two side pockets and a hidden back pocket to securely stow small essentials like house keys.
    — Clara McMahon, PEOPLE, 8 July 2026
Definition of back
Noun
  • Millennials have a soft spot in their hearts for babydoll tops.
    — Olivia Young, Travel + Leisure, 22 June 2026
  • For many Haitian fans, there were mixed emotions in a country that has long had a soft spot for Brazil’s soccer team.
    — David Brandt, Chicago Tribune, 19 June 2026
Definition of soft spot

Browse Nearby Words

achieving
Achilles' heel
Achilles' heels
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Cite this Entry

“Achilles' heel.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/Achilles%27%20heel. Accessed 9 Jul. 2026.

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