ENGLISH
REFERENCE

break out

idiom
Meaning

To bring out from storage, use, or present.


Examples
SIMPLE

Let's break out the good wine for dinner.

CONTEXTUAL

When guests arrived unexpectedly, she broke out the extra chairs from the garage.

COMPLEX

As the snow began to fall, the innkeeper broke out heavy blankets and stoked the fire, knowing the storm would strand travelers for days.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    all bedlam breaks loose

    The situation becomes chaotic or characterized by conflict or rage.

  2. 02

    all hell breaks loose

    The situation becomes chaotic or characterized by conflict or rage.

  3. 03

    big break

    A breakthrough, especially the first big hit of a previously unknown performer or performers in the entertainment industry.

  4. 04

    break a leg

    Good luck!; Do your best!; Said to someone wishing they perform well in a theatrical production or comparable endeavor.

  5. 05

    break a sweat

    To put effort into something.

  6. 06

    break cover

    To disclose one's real thoughts and intentions.

  7. 07

    break down

    To give in or give up: relent, concede, surrender.

  8. 08

    break even

    To neither gain nor lose money.

Last updated April 17, 2026