Broken Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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broken
[หbrษสkษn ]
Definitions
heart
Having been fractured or damaged, no longer in one piece.
Synonyms
damaged, fractured, shattered.
Examples of usage
- My heart felt broken after the breakup.
- She dropped the vase, and it shattered into broken pieces.
- The broken window let the cold air into the room.
promise
Past participle of break; separated into pieces as a result of force.
Synonyms
disrupted, shattered, violated.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| broken |
This word is used when something is physically damaged or not functioning properly. It is commonly used for physical objects or systems.
|
| shattered |
This word conveys a sense of something being completely destroyed or coming apart into many pieces, often used for glass or things that can be broken into many fragments.
|
| disrupted |
This term is appropriate when something is disturbed or interrupted, particularly in a context involving systems, plans, or processes.
|
| violated |
This word has a strong negative connotation and is used when referring to breaking a rule, law, or trust. It implies a serious breach of conduct or rights.
|
Examples of usage
- She had broken her promise to never lie again.
- The criminal had broken into the house while the owners were away.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Feeling broken can relate to mental health, where it often describes a state of emotional distress or sadness.
- Psychologists view the idea of being 'broken' as a part of healing, suggesting that acknowledging it is the first step towards recovery.
- Many therapeutic practices encourage individuals to express their feelings of being 'broken' as a path to personal growth.
Literature
- The theme of brokenness appears frequently in literature, often depicting characters overcoming personal struggles or traumas.
- In poetry, broken lines or stanzas can symbolize disruptions in thought or emotions, representing chaotic feelings.
- Classic works often explore the metaphorical aspect of being broken, such as in romantic or tragic contexts.
Pop Culture
- Many songs use the theme of being broken to connect with listenersโ emotions, conveying deep feelings of loss and resilience.
- Movies often highlight characters who are 'broken,' showcasing their journey toward recovery and empowerment.
- Popular art frequently depicts broken objects to symbolize culture's fragility or societal issues.
Science
- In biology, 'broken' can refer to cells that have been disrupted, affecting their function and behavior.
- Mechanical engineering examines 'broken' parts to improve designs, understanding what causes failures.
- The study of materials science includes how and why materials fail, discussing notions of being 'broken' at the microscopic level.
Origin of 'broken'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'broken' comes from the Old English word 'brocen,' which means to shatter or disrupt.
- It's the past participle form of 'break,' which has roots in Proto-Germanic languages.
- The concept of being 'broken' transcends physical objects and can apply to spirits or systems in literature and culture.
The word 'broken' comes from the Middle English 'broke(n)', past participle of 'breken', which in turn comes from Old English 'brecan'. The sense of 'not functioning properly' dates back to the 16th century. Over time, 'broken' has evolved to encompass physical, emotional, and abstract meanings.
See also: broke.