26984 words

brakes

4 definitions • 9 examples
1
a device that makes a vehicle go slower or stop, or a pedal, bar, or handle that makes this device work:

Examples:

She had no brakes on her bicycle.
The driver suddenly put on his brakes.
slam on the brakes informal I slammed on (= quickly used) the brakes, but it was too late.
anti-lock brakes All our new models have anti-lock brakes.
2

Examples:

Suddenly we heard a screech of brakes and saw the car swerve to miss the bicycle.
3
to make a vehicle go slower or stop, using its brake or brakes:

Examples:

When it's icy, brake gently.
He would drive very fast and brake hard/sharply at the last minute.
4
a device that slows or stops the movement of a vehicle:

Examples:

anti-lock brakes
He saw a deer crossing the road and hit/slammed on the brakes (= stopped as quickly as possible).

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