# boil over

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/boil-over
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To reach the point where aggressive action is taken.

## Examples

- Their long argument finally boiled over into a shouting match.
- The tension between the two coworkers had been building for months before it finally boiled over during the staff meeting.
- After years of suppressed resentment and systemic neglect, the public frustration finally boiled over, leading to widespread protests across the city.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.