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

The newlyweds reportedly had to make an eleventh hour venue change, opting for the more secluded and secure Arsenale for the Saturday reception, according to local media.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 27, 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

On November 11 at eleven a.m.—the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month—the guns fell silent on the Western Front.

From "The War to End All Wars: World War I" by Russell Freedman