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Synonyms

break the bank

Idioms  

  1. Ruin one financially, exhaust one's resources, as in I guess the price of a movie won't break the bank. This term originated in gambling, where it means that a player has won more than the banker (the house) can pay. It also may be used ironically, as above. [c. 1600]

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.

Nacua is in line to break the bank with a deal upward of $40 million per season.

From Los Angeles Times

But he is such a disruptive force, he could break the bank when he is eligible after next season.

From Los Angeles Times

And yet, the sector is still willing to break the bank for the Super Bowl—even though, time and again, we’ve already seen how this particular game plays out.

From Slate

And receiver Puka Nacua is positioned to potentially break the bank with an extension.

From Los Angeles Times

Angel Nail Salon – A spa day is always a good day, especially when you’re spending time with friends—and it doesn’t have to break the bank.

From Salon

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023

Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.