# break in

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/break-in
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To reach a state of functioning more smoothly through use or wear; to cause (something, or someone, new) to undergo this change.

## Examples

- These new shoes hurt until you break them in.
- The manager spent two weeks breaking in the new intern, showing her how everything worked.
- Though the leather jacket felt stiff and awkward at first, within a month of regular wear it had broken in beautifully, softening to fit his shoulders like a second skin.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.