Definition

A situation where someone escapes from prison or jail, often by breaking through barriers or using illegal methods.

Example

The prisoner planned a daring jailbreak to regain his freedom.

Conversation

Did you hear about that recent jailbreak at the local prison?

Yeah, it was all over the news!

I can't believe they managed to pull off such a bold jailbreak.

Right? It makes you wonder how secure the place really is.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

**Jailbreak** → It is formed from "jail" (from Old French *jaiole*, meaning a cage or prison) and "break" (from Old English *brecan*, meaning to shatter or break). The word "jailbreak" refers to the act of breaking out of a prison or jail.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'cage' ('jaiole') that someone is trying to 'shatter' ('brecan') to escape — that's what a jailbreak means.

Visually Confused Words