rock bottom

¹

noun

1. the very lowest level:

   He went bankrupt and touched rock bottom.

rock-bottom

²

[ rok-bot-uhm ]

adjective

1. at the lowest possible limit or level; extremely low:

   rock-bottom prices.

rock bottom

noun

1. 1. the lowest possible level
   2. ( as modifier )

      rock-bottom prices

Word History and Origins

Origin of rock bottom¹

An Americanism dating back to 1865–70

Origin of rock bottom²

First recorded in 1880–85

Idioms and Phrases

The lowest possible level, absolute bottom, as in Wheat prices have reached rock bottom . This idiom alludes to the presence of bedrock that prevents digging farther down. [Late 1800s]

Example Sentences

The series was renewed in February 2022 even before the airing of its chaotic-yet-pivotal finale that sees Rue hitting rock bottom.

From Los Angeles Times

Bush’s second win was rock bottom for Democrats and forced the party to reflect and rebuild, Silver explained.

From Salon

Scottish Conservatives justice spokesman Liam Kerr said the decision showed that relations between the Scottish government and police officers had "hit rock bottom."

From BBC

When he resigned in 2020, the Gauchos had an exodus of players, leaving the program at rock bottom.

From Los Angeles Times

The prime minister’s poll ratings were rock bottom for months after October 7.

From BBC

Related Words

• nadir