Dictionary
break up
verb
Definition of BREAK UP
intransitive verb
1
a : to cease to exist as a unified whole : disperse <their partnership broke up> b : to end a romance
2
: to lose morale, composure, or resolution; especially : to become abandoned to laughter <breaks up completely, laughing himself into a coughing fit — Gene Williams>
transitive verb
1
: to break into pieces
2
: to bring to an end <broke up the fight>
3
: to do away with : destroy <break up a monopoly>
4
: to disrupt the continuity or flow of <break up a dull routine>
5
: decompose <break up a chemical>
6
: to cause to laugh heartily
See break up defined for kids
ADVERTISEMENT
First Known Use of BREAK UP
15th century
Learn More About BREAK UP
Browse
Next Word in the Dictionary: breakup valuePrevious Word in the Dictionary: breakupAll Words Near: break up
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up break up? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).