Brake
/breɪk/
Definitions
2 meaningsA mechanism used to slow or stop motion, typically in vehicles.
/breɪk/
Device for slowing or stopping a vehicle.
The brakes screeched as the car stopped.
💡 Simply: Something that stops a car or bike.
More Examples
He applied the brakes suddenly.
How It's Used
"The car's brakes failed."
"He squeezed the brake levers."
To reduce or stop the speed of something using a brake.
/breɪk/
To slow or stop something using a brake.
The driver braked hard to avoid a collision.
💡 Simply: To stop or slow down something using brakes.
More Examples
She braked gently as she approached the intersection.
How It's Used
"He braked sharply to avoid an accident."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
put the brakes on
To slow or stop something's progress.
"The company decided to put the brakes on its expansion plans."
From Middle English *breken*, from Old English *bræcan* "to break, crush, shatter". The meaning shifted to stopping motion.
The word's usage in relation to vehicles increased significantly with the advent of the automobile.
Memory tip
Think of 'breaking' the momentum.
Word Origin
"to break, crush, shatter"