unbroken
UK: ʌnˈbrəʊkən | US: ʌnˈbroʊkən
adj. not broken; intact or whole
adj. continuous or uninterrupted
adj. (of a record) not surpassed or exceeded
The word "unbroken" combines the Old English prefix "un-" (meaning "not") with the past participle "broken" (from the verb "break," derived from Old English "brecan"). The prefix "un-" is a common negator in English, while "broken" retains its original spelling and meaning. Together, they form a logical negation, emphasizing continuity or wholeness. The term has evolved to describe physical intactness, temporal continuity, and unchallenged records.
The vase remained unbroken despite the earthquake.
She has an unbroken streak of daily exercise for three years.
The horse was trained to stay unbroken and wild.
His unbroken focus helped him finish the project on time.
The team holds an unbroken record for the most wins in a season.