Brake
/breɪk/noun
A device or mechanism for slowing or stopping motion.
Did you know?English brake is historically linked to words for breaking and crushing, not to any mystical “pause” concept—its modern force comes from the ancient idea of violent restraint.
Etymological Timeline
Old English
OE
bræcan
“to break, shatter, or violate”
Middle English
ME
brake
“an instrument for crushing flax or hemp; also a kneading or crushing device”
16th Century
English
brake
“a machine for checking or restraining motion, especially by friction”
Modern English
English
brake
“a device used to slow or stop a vehicle or moving mechanism”