broke

UK: /brəʊk/ | US: /broʊk/

Definition

  1. adj. 1. Having no money; financially ruined.

  2. v. 2. Past tense of break (to separate into pieces).

Structure
break <to separate>e <past tense suffix>
Etymology

The word broke originates from the Old English brecan (to break), which evolved into Middle English breken. The past tense form broke emerged by the 14th century, retaining the core meaning of fragmentation. By the 18th century, it gained the slang sense of being financially ruined, metaphorically extending the idea of "broken" to one's wealth or stability.

Examples

  1. He dropped the vase, and it broke into pieces.

  2. After the business failed, she was completely broke.

  3. The handle broke off when he pulled too hard.

  4. Many people go broke trying to start a new company.

  5. The storm broke several tree branches.