# breakers

/ˈbɹeɪkɝz/ (US) · /bɹˈeɪkəz/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/breakers
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. crashing waves

noun · CEFR B2

large waves that break into white foam as they reach the shore or rocks.

For teachers: heavy sea waves that break into white foam upon reaching the shore or a reef.

- The children watched the breakers crash against the rocks during the storm.
- The experienced surfer paddled out beyond the line of heavy breakers to reach the calmer water where the swells were more predictable.

### 2. excellent or exciting

adjective · CEFR C2 · British English · Slang

a slang word for something that is very good or exciting.

For teachers: an informal term for something outstandingly pleasing or exciting. Primarily used in specific British subcultures.

- That new club we went to last night was absolutely breakers.
- The atmosphere at the festival was breakers, with the crowd reacting enthusiastically to every track the DJ played.

Teaching tip: This slang sense is very niche and primarily found in older British youth subcultures; most modern speakers will only know the 'waves' meaning.

## Examples

- The breakers are waiting for the gate to open.
- We stood in the queue while the breakers bought their tickets at the counter.
- In the chaotic rush of the morning commute, the breakers surged forward the moment the subway doors slid open.

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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.