Breakage Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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breakage

[หˆbreษช.kษชdส’ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

damage occurrence

Breakage refers to the state of being broken or damaged, especially in relation to items or materials. It can denote both the act of breaking something and the resulting condition of the broken object. This term is often used in commercial contexts, such as when discussing losses incurred from damaged goods.

Synonyms

damage, destruction, fragmentation, shatter.

Examples of usage

  • The breakage of the glassware was unexpected.
  • Insurance claims are often filed for severe breakage.
  • We need to account for breakage in our shipping costs.
Context #2 | Noun

in insurance

In insurance, breakage is used to refer to specific claims arising from the damage or loss of goods due to breakage. This usually concerns commercial insurance policies that cover potential losses caused by shipping and handling.

Synonyms

claim, loss, reparation.

Examples of usage

  • The company filed a breakage claim after the shipment arrived damaged.
  • Breakage coverage is essential for fragile items.
  • Our breakage insurance helped recover some losses.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In physics, breakage often relates to stress and strain, as materials can only handle so much pressure before they fail.
  • Understanding the microscopic structure of materials helps predict when breakage might occur.
  • Certain materials, like glass and ceramics, are more prone to breakage due to their rigid structures.

Economics

  • Breakage can refer to lost revenue in businesses, such as broken products that canโ€™t be sold.
  • In the retail sector, understanding breakage rates helps manage inventory and save costs.
  • Insurance businesses often evaluate breakage to determine risk and premiums for retail policies.

Art

  • In art, breakage can transform perceived value; a shattered sculpture might lead to new interpretations.
  • Artists sometimes embrace breakage, creating pieces from broken materials as part of their aesthetic.
  • In performance art, 'breakage' may be used symbolically to represent loss or transformation.

Psychology

  • Witnessing breakage can evoke emotions like sadness or nostalgia, as it often symbolizes loss.
  • People may emotionally attach to objects, making their breakage a significant event.
  • In therapeutic settings, discussing breakage can help individuals process grief or change.

Origin of 'breakage'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old English 'brecan,' which means 'to break.'
  • Used in the 16th century in English to describe damage or destruction.
  • The suffix '-age' indicates a result or condition, making it about the result of breaking.

The word "breakage" originates from the combination of the verb "break" and the suffix "-age," which is used to form nouns indicating a state or collection of actions. The word "break" can be traced back to Old English 'brecan,' meaning 'to shatter or destroy.' The suffix "-age" implies a condition or result, thus linking the action of breaking with the consequence of being broken. Its use began to gain prominence in the English language around the late 19th century, especially in commercial and legal contexts, where the need to discuss damages and losses became increasingly relevant. Through time, 'breakage' has become a significant term, particularly in commerce, trade, and insurance industries, highlighting the impact of physical damage on financial matters.


Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,086, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.