eleventh hour

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.

But talks stalled at the eleventh hour, with negotiations crumbling partly due to America’s nicknamed “Star Wars” program, the space-based missile defense system that America was trying to develop to prevent a nuclear attack.

From Slate • Feb. 2, 2026

"My mum cancelled making Nicola’s dress in the eleventh hour despite how excited she was to wear her design, forcing her to urgently find a new dress."

From Barron's • Jan. 20, 2026

At the eleventh hour, the White House named Essayli as acting U.S. attorney, allowing him to hold the post for 210 more days without confirmation hearings.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 29, 2025

The surprising announcement came at the eleventh hour of his presidency and sparked celebration among the amendment's backers.

From Salon • Jan. 17, 2025

Then he said quietly: ‘Up to the last moment—up to the eleventh hour, we will beg the Governor’s permission for the ships’ return to London with their cargo.

From "Johnny Tremain" by Esther Hoskins Forbes