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Definition of abreast

abreast

/əˈbrɛst/
a · breast
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abreast Lexical Profile

abreast Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Up to date with or fully informed about the latest developments, facts, or trends (usually followed by 'of' or 'with').

Example

"Medical professionals must read clinical journals regularly to stay abreast of new treatment protocols."

2

Positioned alongside or level with someone or something.

Example

"The lead runner remained abreast of her closest competitor until the final turn of the track."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• adverb

1

Side by side and facing or moving in the same direction.

Example

"The narrow cobblestone lane was barely wide enough for two people to walk abreast."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for abreast
Antonyms
View all antonyms for abreast

Word Nuance & Usage

As an adjective, 'abreast' is strictly predicative (coming after a linking verb rather than directly before a noun) and is almost always followed by 'of' or 'with' in the sense of staying informed (e.g., 'keep abreast of the news').

• Rhymes for abreast

• Nearby Words

abrasive
abrasively
abrasiveness
abreast
abridgable
abridge
abridger

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in Late Middle English from the prefix 'a-' (representing Old English 'on', meaning 'in' or 'on') combined with 'breast', literally signifying 'breast to breast' or aligned in a row.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Abreast. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/abreast
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