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

The Valkyires allowed opponents to get in transition on only 14 percent of possessions; their discipline on offense prevents fast breaks in the other direction. — Sabreena Merchant, New York Times, 16 Oct. 2026

The second of those rejections sparked a fast break, which ended with Bryant getting fouled at the rim and making a pair of free throws. — Jeff McDonald, San Antonio Express-News, 14 Oct. 2026

The Magic missed eight free throws (20 for 28), gave up 48 points in the paint and allowed the Grizzlies to outscore them 12-8 on fast breaks. — Jason Beede, The Orlando Sentinel, 8 Oct. 2026

Thybulle will be asked to knock down corner threes and fill the lane on the fast break. — Broderick Turner, Los Angeles Times, 4 Oct. 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