breaker
UK: ˈbreɪkə | US: ˈbreɪkər
n. a person or thing that breaks something
n. a wave that breaks into foam, typically near the shore
n. (electrical) a device for interrupting an electric circuit to prevent overload
The word "breaker" originates from the verb "break," derived from Old English brecan (to fracture or shatter), which traces back to Proto-Germanic brekaną. The suffix "-er" is an agentive suffix in English, indicating "one who does" (e.g., "teacher," "runner"). Combined, "breaker" literally means "one who breaks." Over time, its usage expanded to include natural phenomena (waves) and mechanical devices (circuit breakers), reflecting the core idea of forceful separation or interruption.
The storm sent massive breakers crashing against the cliffs.
A circuit breaker tripped, cutting power to the entire building.
He worked as a stone breaker in the quarry.
The ship struggled to navigate through the dangerous breakers.
The union appointed him as a strike breaker during the negotiations.