abreast
|a/breast|
B2
/əˈbrɛst/
side by side
Etymology
Etymology Information
'abreast' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'abrest,' where 'a-' meant 'on' and 'breast' referred to the chest.
Historical Evolution
'abrest' transformed into the modern English word 'abreast' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'side by side,' but over time it evolved to also mean 'up to date with information.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
side by side and facing the same way.
The soldiers marched abreast.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Adverb 1
up to date with the latest news, ideas, or information.
She keeps abreast of the latest developments in technology.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:41