break
verb (used with object)
to smash, split, or divide into parts violently; reduce to pieces or fragments.
had broken
-
past perfectof break.past perfect
Used to express a completed action that took place before another specific past action occurred.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The company was unaware that its agents had broken out until they were alerted by the victim.
From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 17, 2026
Williams had broken out as a freshman for Oklahoma before transferring to USC and winning the Heisman Trophy as a sophomore.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 14, 2026
The Brit Award-winning singer-songwriter, born in Hitchin, Hertfordshire, had broken his ankle the day before.
From BBC ● Sep. 11, 2026
Committee members were concerned that this wasn’t the first time Narbonne had broken rules, with the team being banned in 2019 and then again committed rule violations.
From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 10, 2026
The straps had broken loose and the saddle had torn away in the whirlpool.
From "The Book of Three" by Lloyd Alexander
