day of reckoning

: a time when the consequences of a course of mistakes or misdeeds are felt
the flow of wealth … hurried overstocking and brought the day of reckoning nearerR. A. Billington

Word History

First Known Use

1547, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of day of reckoning was in 1547

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near day of reckoning

Cite this Entry

“Day of reckoning.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/day%20of%20reckoning. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!