break the ice, To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social setting.
break new ground, To do something innovative or pioneering.
break the bank, To cost more money than one can afford.
Word Origin
Language
Old English
Original word
brecan
Originally meant
to break, shatter, burst
Background
The word 'break' comes from the Old English 'brecan', which means to shatter or burst. It has been used in English since before the 12th century, maintaining its core meaning of separating or interrupting.