Meaning
To cost more money than one can afford or to exhaust all of one’s financial resources.
Origin
Originates from 19th-century gambling saloons and casinos, particularly games like roulette and baccarat. ‘Breaking the bank’ occurred when a player won more chips than the table’s house bank held on hand, forcing the table to suspend play.
Examples
You don’t need to break the bank to buy a reliable secondhand car.
We enjoyed a wonderful vacation at a cozy resort without breaking the bank.
Upgrading the office equipment is necessary, but it shouldn’t break the bank.
A: Are you going to buy that designer leather jacket?
B: No, it looks great, but it would completely break the bank.
Frequently asked questions
What does 'Break the bank' mean?
To cost more money than one can afford or to exhaust all of one’s financial resources.
How do you say 'Break the bank' in Russian?
Влететь в копеечку
How do you say 'Break the bank' in Spanish?
Costar un ojo de la cara
How do you say 'Break the bank' in French?
Coûter les yeux de la tête