broke
v. · adj. · n.-
1 past tense of break (v.) A2 Elementarythe past tense of 'break'.
the simple past tense of the irregular verb 'break'.
ExampleHe accidentally broke his favorite mug when he dropped it this morning.
ExampleThe sudden surge in pressure broke the main water pipe, causing significant flooding in the basement before the valves could be closed.
PitfallThe window was broke by the ball.The window was broken by the ball.Use 'broke' for the simple past and 'broken' for the passive voice or past participle.
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2 having no money (adj.) A2 Elementary Informalhaving no money at all.
lacking financial resources; penniless or bankrupt.
ExampleI can't go to the cinema tonight because I'm completely broke until payday.
ExampleAfter the startup failed, the founders found themselves broke and looking for entry-level positions in a competitive market.
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3 to act as a broker (v.) C1 Advanced Formal Technical Lawto arrange a deal or business agreement between other people.
to negotiate or arrange a deal, typically as an intermediary.
ExampleThe two countries tried to broke a peace deal after years of war.
ExampleThe diplomat spent months attempting to broke a ceasefire between the warring factions, though local leaders remained skeptical of the terms.
UsageOften used in political or high-level business contexts regarding treaties or mergers.
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4 paper waste (n.) C2 Proficiency Technical Sciencepaper that is damaged or left over during manufacturing and sent to be recycled.
discarded paper or board that is repulped during the manufacturing process.
ExampleThe factory collects all the broke to make new sheets of paper.
ExampleEfficient mill management requires the systematic collection of wet and dry broke to minimize raw material costs and reduce environmental impact.
Ablauted form of break.
From Middle English broce, from Old English gebroc (“fragment”), from brecan (“to break”). Compare broken, past participle of break. Compare also Scots brock (“a scrap of meat or bread”).
Back-formation from broker.
Clipping of broke off.
- 01
coals and coke
[Cockney slang]broke
- 02
go for broke
To try everything possible or do every last thing possible in a final attempt.
- 03
the straw that broke the camel's back
A small and seemingly insignificant addition to a burden that renders it too much to bear; the small thing which causes failure, or causes inability or unwillingness to endure any more of something.