Emergency Brake: Definition, Usage & Examples

Meaning 1：emergency brake (Emergency Brake)

Emergency Brake 🔊

/ɪˈmɜːrdʒənsi breɪk/

A special brake used to stop a vehicle quickly in a dangerous situation.

emergency brake 🔊

➕

/ɪˈmɜːrdʒənsi breɪk/

A mechanical or electronic system used to stop a vehicle when the main brakes fail or in urgent situations.

📁 Category：Transportation & Travel 🔖 Level：beginner

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

From Latin 'emergere' (to rise out) and Middle Dutch 'braeke' (to break).

💡 Mnemonic

Emerge from danger + brake = quick stop in a crisis!

📖 Example

When a dog suddenly ran into the road, the driver had to pull the emergency brake to avoid an accident. 🔊 When a dog suddenly ran into the road, the driver had to pull the emergency brake to avoid an accident.

🔗 Collocations

pull the emergency brake – Activate the brake by pulling the lever.

engage the emergency brake – Set the brake into operation.

release the emergency brake – Disengage the brake to allow movement.

🔄 Synonyms

handbrake (n.) – A lever-operated brake typically used for parking or emergencies.

parking brake (n.) – A brake used to keep a vehicle stationary when parked.

hand brake (n.) – A brake operated by hand, often synonymous with emergency brake.

🚫 Antonyms

accelerator (n.) – A pedal that increases the vehicle's speed.

gas pedal (n.) – A pedal that controls the engine's throttle to accelerate.

throttle (n.) – A device that regulates the flow of fuel to the engine to increase speed.

📖 Cultural Story

First used in early 1900s automobiles as a mechanical lever to stop wheels in emergencies. Now a standard safety feature in all vehicles.