breakthrough
breakthrough Lexical Profile
breakthrough Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A sudden, dramatic, and important discovery, development, or achievement that removes a barrier to progress.
"Researchers announced a major breakthrough in renewable energy storage that could lower electricity costs worldwide."
An act or instance of moving or forcing a way through an obstacle, barrier, or defensive line.
"The engineering crew achieved a physical breakthrough in the mountain tunnel after months of drilling through solid granite."
• adjective
Making or representing a sudden, dramatic, and important discovery, achievement, or rise to prominence.
"The young actress won several prestigious awards for her breakthrough role in the independent drama."
Relating to a symptom, medical condition, or infection that occurs despite the presence of a preventive vaccine or ongoing medication designed to control it.
"The clinic monitored patients closely for any signs of breakthrough pain during the post-operative recovery period."
Word Nuance & Usage
Do not confuse the one-word noun or adjective 'breakthrough' (a sudden discovery or major advance) with the two-word verb phrase 'break through' (to force a way through a barrier, as in 'The sun began to break through the clouds').
Word Origin & Etymology
First recorded in the early 20th century as a military compound formed from the phrasal verb 'break through', originally referring to an offensive penetration of enemy defensive lines during World War I before broadening to scientific and general achievements.