ENGLISH
REFERENCE

jailbreak

n. countable
C1 Advanced US //ˈdʒeɪɫˌbɹeɪk// UK //dʒˈeɪlbɹeɪk// jail·break

n. the act of removing software restrictions on a device like a phone or tablet. This lets you install apps or change settings that the manufacturer usually blocks.

n. the process of removing software restrictions imposed by the manufacturer on a device's operating system. This typically involves exploiting security vulnerabilities to gain root access, allowing the installation of unauthorized software.


SIMPLE

He performed a jailbreak on his old phone to install custom themes.

CONTEXTUAL

After the latest jailbreak was released, many users modified their tablets to run third-party applications not found in the official store.

COMPLEX

While a jailbreak offers greater customization and control over the hardware, it often voids the manufacturer's warranty and may leave the device vulnerable to security threats.

Synonyms
Origin

From jail + break.

Usage

Often used as a compound noun in computing; can also function as a verb.

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