Breached Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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breached

[bri:cht ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

legal context

The term 'breached' refers to the act of breaking or violating a law, duty, or contractual obligation. It typically implies that an agreement or a set of rules has been disregarded or not fulfilled. In legal matters, a breach can lead to consequences such as litigation, fines, or other forms of penalties. The occurrence of a breach often prompts parties to seek remedies or restitution to address the harm caused by the violation.

Synonyms

infringed, transgressed, violated.

Examples of usage

  • She breached the terms of the contract.
  • The company was sued for having breached environmental regulations.
  • He felt betrayed when she breached their confidentiality agreement.
Context #2 | Verb

security context

'Breached' can also mean unauthorized access to a system or network, usually in the context of cyber security. When a system has been breached, it indicates that security measures have been compromised, allowing potential theft of data or other malicious actions. Organizations often implement various security protocols to prevent breaches and protect sensitive information.

Synonyms

hacked, intruded, penetrated.

Examples of usage

  • The hackers breached the company's database.
  • After the system was breached, they enhanced their security measures.
  • Data was leaked after the network was breached.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Legal Context

  • In law, a breach can refer to violating a contract or duty.
  • Breach of promise was historically a legal claim regarding broken engagements.
  • Classifying breaches helps in assigning liabilities and remedies in court cases.

Military History

  • Breaching was a key tactic in sieges where attackers aimed to break walls or defenses.
  • The term featured prominently during famous battles, such as the Siege of Jerusalem in 70 AD.
  • Innovations like tunneling, catapults, and later explosives were developed for breaches.

Cybersecurity

  • In technology, a breach refers to unauthorized access to data or a network.
  • Data breaches expose sensitive information, affecting millions of people globally.
  • Prominent breaches include those experienced by major corporations and often result in legal consequences.

Literature

  • Many authors describe personal and emotional breaches in relationships, symbolizing deep conflict.
  • Classic literature often uses breaches to signify betrayal or the breaking of social norms.
  • In modern fiction, breaches can lead to plot twists that challenge characters' motivations and morals.

Origin of 'breached'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old English 'berican,' meaning 'to break or burst.'
  • It originally referred to breaking through a barrier, especially in fortifications.
  • The transition to modern usage includes breaches in law, safety, and data security.

The term 'breach' has its origins in the Old English word 'brecce', meaning 'a breaking'. This word is related to the verb 'break', which comes from the Proto-Germanic '*brekanan', meaning 'to break'. Historically, the term has evolved to encompass various forms of violation, such as in legal, personal, and security contexts. In the context of contracts and agreements, the concept of breaching has been significant in legal systems for centuries, evolving alongside the development of contractual law. In more modern usage, especially with the rise of technology, the term has expanded to include security breaches, highlighting the vulnerability of digital systems. Overall, the term reflects the act of breaking trust or rules, whether in a personal or institutional context.


Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,489, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.