break bread

phrase

Synonyms of break breadnext
: to dine together
invited the newcomers to break bread with them

Word History

First Known Use

1812, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of break bread was in 1812

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Cite this Entry

“Break bread.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/break%20bread. Accessed 10 Mar. 2026.

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Last Updated: - Definition revised
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