breach

noun

1. Obsolete a breaking or being broken
2. a failure to observe the terms, as of a law or promise, the customary forms, etc.; violation; infraction
3. an opening made by a breakthrough, as in a wall, line of defense, etc.
4. a broken or torn place or part
5. a breaking of waves over or upon a ship, sea wall, etc.
6. a whale's leap clear of the water
7. a break in friendly relations

Origin: ME breche < OE bryce < brecan (see break); infl. by OFr breche < OHG brecha, of same orig.

transitive verb

1. to make a breach in; break open or through
2. to break or violate (a contract, covenant, etc.)

intransitive verb