breakup

break-up · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    The end of a romantic relationship.

  2. 2.

    The division of something into smaller parts.

  3. 3.

    The disintegration or collapse of something.

  4. 4.

    A disruption in communication, especially in broadcasting.

Forms

plural: breakups

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    messy breakup — a difficult or contentious separation
  • •
    breakup song — a song about ending a relationship
  • •
    post-breakup — the period after a relationship ends

Related words

Antonyms: merger, reconciliation, union
See also: break, divorce, separation, split
Synonyms: dissolution, parting, separation, split

Etymology

Compound word formed from "break" and "up," used as a noun from the mid-19th century. Originally referred to physical separation; the relationship sense developed in the 20th century.