crunch time

noun

: a critical moment or period (as near the end of a game) when decisive action is needed

Examples of crunch time in a Sentence

The team had trained well, but at crunch time they just couldn't perform. with only three minutes left in the game, it was definitely crunch time
Recent Examples on the Web The rookies led the charge offensively in the second half, as Jackson and Brink finished with 15 and 16 points, respectively, with each making huge plays in crunch time. Andrés Soto, Los Angeles Times, 25 May 2024 The Mavericks were able to win a playoff game in crunch time without either superstar scoring in the final three minutes. Steven Johnson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 19 May 2024 See all Example Sentences for crunch time 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'crunch time.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1933, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of crunch time was in 1933

Dictionary Entries Near crunch time

Cite this Entry

“Crunch time.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/crunch%20time. Accessed 29 May. 2024.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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