weakest

The Oxford Dictionary of Phrase and Fable | 2006 | 643 words | Copyright

weakest the weakest go to the wall proverbial saying, early 16th century; usually said to derive from the installation of seating around the walls in churches of the later Middle Ages. Go to the wall in figurative use means, succumb in a conflict or struggle.
the weakest link the point at which a system, sequence, or organization is most vulnerable; the least dependable element or member.

In the televison game-show The Weakest Link (2000– ), contestants who have been voted off are dismissed with the words, ‘You are the weakest link…goodbye.’

See also a chain is no stronger than its weakest link, weaker.

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ELIZABETH KNOWLES. "weakest." The Oxford Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 2006. Encyclopedia.com. 29 May. 2012 <http://www.encyclopedia.com>.

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