flash point

WordReference Random House Learner's Dictionary of American English © 2025

ˈflash ˌpoint or ˈflashˌpoint, n. [countable]

1. Chemistry the lowest temperature at which a liquid will give off sufficient vapor to ignite when a flame is applied to it.
2. a point at which a situation can flare up:
   at a flashpoint in the budget crisis.

WordReference Random House Unabridged Dictionary of American English © 2025

flash′ point′, 

1. Chemistry Also, flashing point. [Physical Chem.] the lowest temperature at which a liquid in a specified apparatus will give off sufficient vapor to ignite momentarily on application of a flame.
2. a critical point or stage at which something or someone suddenly causes or creates some significant action:
   A 10 percent drop in mortgage rates will produce a flash point in the housing market.
3. a critical situation or area having the potential of erupting in sudden violence:
   The Mideast has been the flash point for a series of conflicts.
   Also, flash′point′. 
• 1875–80