break
break · verb
Definitions
verb
- 1.
A pause or interval in activity.
- 2.
To separate into pieces as a result of force or impact.
- 3.
A fracture or crack.
- 4.
To stop functioning or cause to stop functioning.
- 5.
An opportunity or chance, especially a fortunate one.
- 6.
To interrupt or stop something.
- 7.
To violate or fail to observe a rule or agreement.
- 8.
To surpass or exceed.
Phrases & expressions
- •break the ice — to relieve tension in a social situation
- •break a leg — good luck (theatrical)
- •break even — to neither gain nor lose money
- •break new ground — to do something innovative
- •give someone a break — to stop criticizing or pressuring someone
- •break the news — to inform someone of important information
- •break someone's heart — to cause emotional pain
Related words
Etymology
From Old English "brecan" meaning to break or shatter, from Proto-Germanic "*brekaną," related to Dutch "breken" and German "brechen."