break off

verb

broke off; broken off; breaking off; breaks off
Synonyms of break offnext

intransitive verb

1
: to stop abruptly
break off in the middle of a sentence
2
: to become detached
branches that broke off in the storm
3
: to end a relationship
broke off with his business partner

transitive verb

1
: discontinue
break off diplomatic relations
2
: to remove by or as if by breaking
broke off a chunk of bread

Synonyms of break off

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Examples of break off in a Sentence

the judge broke off court proceedings until after lunch talks between the two sides broke off when one began making unreasonable demands
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Now, though, some branches are breaking off. — Ann Manov, Harpers Magazine, 23 June 2026 Sure, one robot landed a backflip—but then a piece of it broke off and flew toward the crowd. — Stephen Witt, New Yorker, 29 June 2026 The lead head had been chewed loose and now, on an exceptionally tough bass, the front hook broke off. — Hank Bradshaw, Outdoor Life, 24 June 2026 That led her to break off their engagement in a devastatingly elegant manner. — Moises Mendez Ii, InStyle, 29 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for break off

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of break off was in the 14th century

Rhymes for break off

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Browse Nearby Words

break of day
break off
break of forecastle
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Break off.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/break%20off. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

break off

verb
: to stop suddenly
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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