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Definitions

Achilles' heel

NOUN
vulnerability
Synonyms
WEAK
chink in the armor deficiency frailty soft underbelly susceptibility weakness
Achilles heel
NOUN
vulnerable point
Synonyms
WEAK
chink in the armor damaging weakness defect failing flaw foible frailty heel of Achilles susceptibility tender spot vulnerability weak link weak spot weakness

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Even China’s imports of crude, previously an Achilles heel given its heavy dependence on energy to fuel its economy, dropped 8.8% as electric vehicles continue to dominate the market for autos domestically.

From MarketWatch • Jan. 14, 2026

Could Achilles injuries be the Achilles heel of the NBA?

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 23, 2025

It's the Achilles heel of authoritarians throughout time.

From Salon • Nov. 15, 2024

A fungus devastating frogs and toads on nearly every continent may have an Achilles heel.

From Science Daily • Apr. 3, 2024

“You know what an Achilles heel is, Eddie?”

From "The Million Dollar Shot" by Dan Gutman