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Region: General | Usage example: They submitted the grant at the eleventh hour.

Eleventh hour

Meaning

At the last possible moment.

Usage

Describes urgent last-minute moves.

Origin & History

Origin notes can vary by region and source; this page gives the commonly reported explanation and usage context.

Biblical parable of laborers hired at the eleventh hour.

Appears in English literature from the 18th century onward.

Related Idioms

Rush hour

Times when travel or business is busiest

Down to the wire

Until the very last moment.

Ace up your sleeve

A secret advantage saved for a decisive moment.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.