Definition

A cleared area of land that helps prevent the spread of fire, especially in forests or grasslands.

Example

The firefighters created a firebreak to protect the nearby houses from the approaching wildfire.

Conversation

Did you hear about the new firebreak they created near the park?

Yeah, I read that it helps prevent wildfires from spreading.

It's really important to have those in place, especially during dry seasons.

Absolutely! It gives a lot of people peace of mind.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Firebreak → It is formed from "fire" (from Old English "fyr", meaning combustion or flame) and "break" (from Old English "brecan", meaning to break or shatter). A firebreak is a barrier created to stop or slow the spread of fire.

Memory Tip

Imagine a barrier that 'breaks' the path of 'fire' — that's what a firebreak does, it stops the fire from spreading.

Visually Confused Words