Break

Definition

Break is a verb and a noun with multiple meanings. As a verb, it means to separate into parts with sudden force, to interrupt, or to escape. As a noun, it can refer to an interruption, a pause, or a fracture or gap in something.

Parts of Speech

• Verb
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /breɪk/
• Respelling: BRAYK

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /breɪk/
• Respelling: BRAYK

Etymology

The word "break" originates from the Old English "brecan," meaning "to break" or "to shatter." It is related to the Old Norse "brjóta" and the Dutch "breken," all conveying the sense of separation or interruption.

Derivatives

• Breakage (noun)
• Breakable (adjective)
• Breakthrough (noun)
• Breakdown (noun)
• Outbreak (noun)

Synonyms

• Fracture
• Pause
• Interrupt

Antonyms

• Fix
• Repair
• Continue

Usage

The term "break" is used in various contexts, from describing physical damage to pauses in activities. For example, "The vase might break if dropped," or "Let's take a break for lunch."

Related Terms

• Fracture: A crack or break in something hard, such as bone or material.
• Interval: A pause or gap in time between events.
• Rupture: To burst or break suddenly.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To separate into parts suddenly or violently: Describes the act of causing something to split or shatter.
  • Example: "He accidentally broke the glass."
• To interrupt an activity or sequence: Means to stop or cause a pause in an ongoing action.
  • Example: "They decided to break the meeting for a quick rest."
• To make an escape or way through something: Used to mean leaving confinement or breaking through a barrier.
  • Example: "The prisoners planned to break out of jail."

Noun

• An interruption or pause: Refers to a temporary halt in an activity or process.
  • Example: "They took a break after two hours of work."
• A fracture or gap in something: Describes a physical separation or rupture.
  • Example: "There was a break in the fence."