break the buck
To fall below the value of one dollar per share.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“The stock price will break the buck if it falls further.”
“Investors panicked when the fund's share price began to break the buck during the market crash.”
“Financial analysts warned that if the stablecoin continued to break the buck, it would trigger a massive loss of confidence among institutional traders.”
From the colloquial *buck*, denoting a dollar, combined with *break* in the sense of exhausting a reserve of funds. The construction mirrors the earlier idiom *break the bank*.
- 01
all bedlam breaks loose
The situation becomes chaotic or characterized by conflict or rage.
- 02
all hell breaks loose
The situation becomes chaotic or characterized by conflict or rage.
- 03
bang for the buck
Efficiency; cost-effectiveness; value.
- 04
big break
A breakthrough, especially the first big hit of a previously unknown performer or performers in the entertainment industry.
- 05
big bucks
Lots of money.
- 06
break a leg
Good luck!; Do your best!; Said to someone wishing they perform well in a theatrical production or comparable endeavor.
- 07
break a sweat
To put effort into something.
- 08
break cover
To disclose one's real thoughts and intentions.
Last updated August 10, 2026