Main Entry: ¹breach

Pronunciation: \ˈbrēch\

Function: noun

Etymology: Middle English breche, from Old English brǣc act of breaking; akin to Old English brecan to break

Date: before 12th century

1 : infraction or violation of a law, obligation, tie, or standard
2 a : a broken, ruptured, or torn condition or area b : a gap (as in a wall) made by battering
3 a : a break in accustomed friendly relations b : a temporary gap in continuity : hiatus
4 : a leap especially of a whale out of water