Meaning of the word break in English

What does break mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

break

US /breɪk/

UK /breɪk/

separate into pieces as a result of a blow, shock, or strain

Example:

•

The glass will break if you drop it.

•

He tried to break the stick over his knee.

Synonym:

shatter fracture smash crack splinter

interrupt a continuous process or activity

Example:

•

Let's break for lunch.

•

The silence was suddenly broken by a loud noise.

Synonym:

interrupt pause suspend halt discontinue

fail to observe a law, agreement, or code of conduct

Example:

•

He will break the law if he drives without a license.

•

They decided to break their engagement.

Synonym:

violate infringe transgress breach contravene

an interruption of continuity or uniformity

Example:

•

We took a short break for coffee.

•

There was a sudden break in the clouds.

Synonym:

pause rest intermission recess hiatus

a sudden dash or escape, especially from prison

Example:

•

The prisoners made a daring break from the maximum-security facility.

•

He made a break for the door.

Synonym:

escape breakout flight bolt dash

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