Obs. Also 5 breake. [Of uncertain origin: possibly identical with the prec. sb. (cf. F. braquer un chariot ‘to turn, set, or bend a chariot on the right or left hand’ Cotgr.); more probably a. ODu. braeke (see BRAKE sb.3), occurring in the sense of a nose-ring for a draught ox; or extended use of BRAKE sb.3, due to influence of the verb BREAK (a horse).]

1

  A bridle or curb. (Said in Chambers, Cycl. Supp., 1753, to be a synonym of BARNACLE1.) Obs.

2

1430.  Lydg., Chron. Troy, I. v. Both bridell, breake & reyne.

3

1552.  Huloet, Brake, or sharpe snaffle for a horse.

4

1557.  Tottell’s Misc. (Arb.), 187. The brake within the riders hande, Doth strayne the horse.

5

1563–87.  Foxe, A. & M., III. 819. Many … lost their lives to shake off this most rough brake.

6

1587.  Turberv., Trag. T. (1837), 94. Hardir brakes doe breake the mouth too much.

7

1753.  Chambers, Cycl. Supp.

8