Dictionary

break in

verb

Definition of BREAK IN

intransitive verb
1
:  to enter something (as a building or computer system) without consent or by force
2
a :  intrude <break in upon his privacy>
b :  to interrupt a conversation
3
:  to start in an activity or enterprise <breaking in as a cub reporter>
transitive verb
1
:  to accustom to a certain activity or occurrence <break in the new clerk>
2
:  to overcome the stiffness or newness of <break in a pair of shoes>
ADVERTISEMENT

First Known Use of BREAK IN

circa 1535

Browse

3 ENTRIES FOUND:
Next Word in the Dictionary: breaking and enteringPrevious Word in the Dictionary: break–inAll Words Near: break in
ADVERTISEMENT
How to use a word that (literally) drives some people nuts.
Test your vocab with our fun, fast game
Ailurophobia, and 9 other unusual fears