break up
break up {v.}
1. To break into pieces.
The workmen broke up the pavement to dig up the pipes under it.
River ice breaks up in the spring.
2. {informal}
To lose or destroy spirit or self-control. — Usually used in the passive.
Mrs. Lawrence was all broken up after her daughter's death, and did not go out of the house for two months.
3. To come or to put to an end, especially by separation; separate.
Some men kept interrupting the speakers, and finally broke up the meeting.
The party broke up at midnight.
- Often used in the informal phrase "break it up".
The boys were fighting, and a passing policeman ordered them to break it up.
Compare: CUT OUT (1).
4. {informal}
To stop being friends.
Mary and June were good friends and did everything together, but then they had a quarrel and broke up
Compare: BREAK OFF.
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Source: A Dictionary of American Idioms
