English · Common Verbs
break
/breɪk/
[/breɪk/]
separate into pieces
Beginnerverb
Definition
To separate into pieces, often suddenly, as a result of force or a fall.
Example
If you drop that glass on the tiled floor, it will almost certainly break.
If you drop that glass on the tiled floor, it will almost certainly break.
Etymology
From Old English 'brecan', of Germanic origin, related to German 'brechen'.
How & Where It’s Used
Literal for shattering; figurative for pauses, records, and rules.