Phrase guide

thin end of the wedge

noun · 1 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

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Pronunciation

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1

noun

Meaning 1

Something that if allowed or accepted to a small degree would lead to systematic encroachment.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: idiomatic

Examples

  • The MP told parliament that legalising cannabis would be the thin end of the wedge.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

No etymology was provided for this word.