break-in
|break/in|
/ˈbreɪkˌɪn/
forced entry
Etymology
'break-in' originates from the combination of 'break' and 'in,' where 'break' meant 'to force open' and 'in' indicated 'inside.'
'break' and 'in' were used separately in Old English as 'brecan' and 'innan,' respectively, and eventually combined to form the modern English word 'break-in.'
Initially, it meant 'to force entry,' but over time it evolved to include the concept of 'getting used to something new.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
an illegal entry into a building, typically to commit theft.
The police are investigating a break-in at the local store.
Synonyms
Noun 2
the act of gradually getting used to a new situation or environment.
The new employee is still in the break-in period.
Synonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/02/16 08:36