Search Dictionary
Definition of threshold

threshold

/ˈθrɛʃ.hoʊld/
thresh · old

Plural:thresholds
JUMP TO:

threshold Lexical Profile

threshold Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The magnitude, intensity, or level that must be exceeded for a certain reaction, phenomenon, result, or condition to occur or be manifested.

Example

"The patient has a remarkably low threshold for pain and requires medication for minor procedures."


2

A strip of wood, metal, or stone forming the bottom of a doorway and crossed when entering a building or room.

Example

"She paused at the threshold of the room, taking a deep breath before stepping inside."


3

A point of entry or beginning; the verge of a new phase, era, or event.

Example

"The research team is on the threshold of a major scientific breakthrough that could cure the disease."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for threshold
Antonyms
View all antonyms for threshold

• Rhymes for threshold

Word Origin & Etymology

From Old English 'þrescold', which referred to a piece of wood or stone placed beneath a door. It is historically linked to the verb 'thresh' (originally meaning 'to tread' or 'trample'), reflecting the idea of an area that is heavily stepped on when entering a structure.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Threshold. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/threshold
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Dictionary & Reference
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.