breach

/briːtʃ/

Definitions

1. noun

a break or opening in something, especially a wall or a fortification, that allows entry or passage.

“The city’s defenses were breached by the invaders.”

2. verb

to break or violate a rule, agreement, or law, especially by doing something forbidden or prohibited.

“She was fined for breaching the speed limit.”

3. verb

to enter or come into a place, often in a sudden or unexpected way.

“The protesters breached the police cordon and stormed the building.”

4. noun

a sudden or violent entry into a place, often in a noisy or forceful manner.

“The crowd made a breach for the exit when the fire alarm sounded.”

5. noun

a failure to perform a duty or obligation, especially in a financial or contractual sense.

“The company’s breach of contract led to a lawsuit.”

Synonyms

  • break
  • infringe
  • rupture
  • transgress
  • violate

Antonyms

  • adherence
  • compliance
  • enforcement
  • observance
  • observatory