Meaning
At the very last possible moment, just before it becomes too late to act, decide, or change the outcome of a situation.
It is used to describe a dramatic, last-minute development, whether a rescue, a decision, or a change of plans, that arrives right on the edge of a deadline or crisis.
Origin
The phrase comes from the biblical parable of the workers in the vineyard, told by Jesus in Matthew 20:1-16, in which a landowner hires laborers throughout the day, including some at the eleventh hour, the last hour before sunset in a twelve-hour working day, yet still pays them a full day’s wage. Over time, the phrase detached from its original context of unexpected grace and became a general expression for anything happening at the very last moment.
Examples
The company found a new investor at the eleventh hour, just before the factory was set to close.
He always finishes his essays at the eleventh hour, the night before they are due.
The peace talks nearly collapsed, but a compromise was reached at the eleventh hour.
A: Did they manage to fix the venue problem before the wedding?
B: Yes, at the eleventh hour, literally an hour before the ceremony.
Frequently asked questions
What does 'At the eleventh hour' mean?
At the very last possible moment, just before it becomes too late to act, decide, or change the outcome of a situation.
It is used to describe a dramatic, last-minute development, whether a rescue, a decision, or a change of plans, that arrives right on the edge of a deadline or crisis.