Breach Meaning and Definition
Breach
Pronunciation
/breɪtʃ/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A gap or opening in a barrier, fence, or wall, especially one made intentionally or as a result of wear and tear, allowing unauthorized entry or access.
Examples
- The thieves took advantage of a breach in the security system to steal the valuable jewels.
- The company’s breach of customer data led to a major crisis and lawsuit.
Synonyms
- Gap
- Opening
- Fault
Antonyms
- Closure
- Barrier
- Security
Etymology
The word “breach” comes from the Old French “breche”, meaning “break” or “rupture”, ultimately derived from the Latin “breccare”, meaning “to break”.
Usage Notes
Breach is often used in a figurative sense to describe a gap or opening in a system, principle, or social norm, such as a breach of trust or a breach of etiquette.
Cultural References
The term “breach” has been used in various cultural contexts, including in literature, film, and television. For example, the phrase ” breaches of the peace” is often used in law enforcement and fiction.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- Breach of contract
- To breach the peace
Related Words or Phrases
- Break
- Gap
- Rupture
Collocations
- To breach a trust
- To breach a rule
- To breach a code
Frequency of Use
The frequency of use of the word “breach” has increased in recent years, particularly in the context of cybersecurity and data breaches.
Common Misspellings
- Brecher
- Breiche