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 intransitive verb

Examples of fast break in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 of the Milwaukee Bucks leads a fast break in the second half against the Indiana Pacers during game three of the first round of the 2025 NBA playoffs at Fiserv Forum on April 25, 2025 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Evan Massey, MSNBC Newsweek, 2 Sep. 2025 There is optimism that the imminent return of Ryan Gravenberch, suspended against Bournemouth following a red card in the final fixture of last season, will go some way to remedying Liverpool’s struggles to defend fast breaks. Jack Bantock, New York Times, 25 Aug. 2025 Standout performers like Amy Okonkwo, who was awarded MVP of the tournament, Promise Amukamara, Ezinne Kalu, and Murjanatu Musa displayed a perfect mix of speed and composure, turning defensive pressure into fast breaks and open shots. Sindiswa Mabunda, Forbes.com, 5 Aug. 2025 The ball fell his way near the top of the penalty area following a fast break. Julian Cardillo, The Orlando Sentinel, 17 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for fast break

Word History

First Known Use

1929, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of fast break was in 1929

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Fast break.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fast%20break. Accessed 8 Sep. 2025.

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