| 1. | Physics, Chemistry. the temperature at which the vapor pressure of a liquid is equal to the pressure of the atmosphere on the liquid, equal to 212°F (100°C) for water at sea level. Abbreviation: b.p. |
| 2. | the point beyond which one becomes angry, outraged, or agitated. |
| 3. | the point at which matters reach a crisis. |
| boiling point n.
|
The temperature at which a given material changes from a liquid to a gas. The boiling point is the same temperature as the condensation point. (See phases of matter.)
Note: Water boils at 212 degrees Fahrenheit or 100 degrees Celsius.
boiling point
A climax or crisis; a high degree of fury, excitement, or outrage. For example, The union's disgust with management has reached the boiling point. This metaphoric term alludes to the temperature at which water boils. [Second half of 1700s]
have a low boiling point. Become angry quite readily, as in Don't tease her anymore
she has a low boiling point. This phrase means that it takes less heat than usual for a boiling point to be reached. [First half of 1800s] Also see boil over; make one's blood boil.