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.
By the end of the year, Minshew had broken the Pac-12 single-season record for passing yards.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Nov. 2, 2026
Watson, who was able to keep up with the game on a doctor’s phone, said he was told he had broken a rib.
From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 30, 2026
Tuesday’s high tide also toppled another all-time record in San Pedro, which had broken its record the day before.
From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 27, 2026
But he demurred when asked if Russia had broken a ceasefire.
From BBC ● Oct. 13, 2026
She also had them index the messages she had broken so far, so that known patterns would be easier to spot.
From "The Woman All Spies Fear" by Amy Butler Greenfield
