The phrase "breaks back" consists of two words with distinct phonetic units. The first word, "breaks," is pronounced as /breɪks/, with the phonetic symbols representing the long 'a' sound /eɪ/ in the first syllable, followed by the voiceless velar stop /ks/ at the end. The second word, "back," is pronounced as /bæk/, with the short 'a' sound /æ/ in the first syllable, and a voiceless velar plosive /k/ at the end. Together, these words form a phrase commonly used in sports to refer to a player losing their serve.
Breaks back is a phrase that can be used in both literal and figurative contexts. In a literal sense, it refers to an act of exertion or strain that causes significant physical discomfort or injury to a person's back. This can occur due to excessive heavy lifting, poor posture, or engaging in strenuous activities without proper support or precautions. Medically, such an injury can result in fractures, sprains, or strains to the spinal column, disrupting its normal structure and function.
Figuratively, breaks back can be used to describe a tremendous effort or undertaking, often associated with hard work or exhaustive exertion in order to achieve a desired outcome. In this context, it implies an immense level of dedication, persistence, and determination that goes beyond the usual standards of commitment. When someone breaks their back to complete a task or achieve a goal, it suggests that they have expended maximum effort and energy, often at great personal sacrifice, to accomplish something significant.
Whether used literally or figuratively, breaks back conveys the idea of enduring substantial physical or mental strain in order to achieve a particular objective. This phrase captures the essence of pushing oneself to the limits, highlighting the immense challenges and sacrifices involved in pursuing a goal, whether that be overcoming physical limitations or going above and beyond what is expected in the pursuit of success.
The term "breaks back" does not have a specific etymology as it is a combination of two separate words, "break" and "back".
"Break" originates from Middle English "breken" which came from Old English "brecan", meaning "to separate into parts" or "to fracture". The word has roots in Proto-Germanic "brekanan" and can be traced back to the Proto-Indo-European language.
"Back" has a similar origin and comes from the Middle English "bakke", which came from Old English "bæc". It can be traced back to Proto-Germanic "bakam" and ultimately the Proto-Indo-European language.
When combined, the phrase "breaks back" refers to a physical injury or strain to the spine or vertebral column.