Last straw

Meaning

The final annoyance that triggers a reaction.

Usage

Used when someone reaches their limit.

Origin & History

Origins and dates here are approximate summaries. Many idioms have disputed or unknown origins, and not every date has been checked against a historical dictionary, so treat specific dates and stories as a starting point rather than a citation.

From the older proverb that 'the last feather breaks the horse's back' (17th century); the camel version became standard in the 19th century.

In English since the 1600s.