fast break

noun

: a quick offensive drive toward a goal (as in basketball) in an attempt to score before the opponent's defense is set up

fast-break

ˈfas(t)-ˌbrāk 

intransitive verb

Examples of fast break in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Off a fast break in the 44th minute, midfielder Croix Bethune laid it off to Debinha for the 1-0 lead. — ABC News, 9 Aug. 2026

Both models are constructed with premium Japanese kip leather and engineered to offer a lighter feel and fast break-in period. — Steve Henson, Los Angeles Times, 15 July 2026

The rule keeps teams from fouling in the backcourt to stop a fast break, and a penalty awards the offense one free throw and possession. — Zach Powell, New York Times, 2 July 2026

In the 48th minute, Norway was on a fast break, when Martin Ødegaard threaded a pass to Haaland between two defenders. — Tim Rohan, NBC news, 23 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1929, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for fast break

• awake
• backache
• beefsteak
• betake
• cheesecake
• cupcake
• daybreak
• earthquake
• forsake
• gouache
• handshake
• headache