brake

UK: breɪk | US: breɪk

Definition

  1. n. a device for slowing or stopping a moving vehicle

  2. vt. to slow or stop a vehicle using a brake

  3. n. (archaic) a heavy vehicle frame or cage

Structure

No data yet.

Etymology

The word "brake" originated in Middle English as brake, referring to a crushing tool or heavy vehicle frame, likely derived from Old Dutch braeke (a flax-breaking tool). By the 18th century, it evolved to mean a mechanical device for slowing motion, influenced by the concept of "breaking" speed. Its modern vehicular sense reflects functional logic—applying resistance to "break" momentum.

Examples

  1. The cyclist squeezed the brake to avoid hitting the pedestrian.

  2. Modern cars use disc brakes for better stopping power.

  3. The train’s emergency brake activated automatically.

  4. She braked sharply when the deer crossed the road.

  5. (Archaic) The wagon’s brake was made of reinforced wood.