Breakout
/ˈbreɪkˌaʊt/
Definitions
2 meaningsA sudden escape, especially from prison; a sudden increase or eruption of something.
/ˈbreɪkˌaʊt/
A sudden escape or release.
The breakout from the prison was swift and successful.
💡 Simply: A sudden escape or burst of something.
More Examples
There's been a breakout of measles in the city.
How It's Used
"There was a breakout at the maximum-security prison last night."
"Health officials are concerned about a possible breakout of the virus."
A sudden, significant, and widely recognized success.
/ˈbreɪkˌaʊt/
A sudden and significant success or achievement.
The band experienced a breakout after their performance at Coachella.
💡 Simply: A big success.
More Examples
The artist's new painting was a breakout at the art fair.
How It's Used
"The new product was a breakout success."
"Her latest album is a breakout hit."
From the verb 'break' + 'out,' reflecting a sudden emergence or escape. Its usage has evolved from literal escapes to metaphorical breakthroughs.
Initially used in the context of literal escapes, its metaphorical usage gained prominence in the 20th century.
Memory tip
Think of breaking OUT of something.