The last straw

Meaning

The final annoyance that forces someone to act or break down.

Usage

Signals the final tipping point after a series of problems.

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.

Evokes piling straws on a camel until its back breaks.

Appears in English usage from the 19th century and remains a common metaphor.