The phrase "broke one's fast" is an idiomatic expression that means to consume food or drink after a period of abstinence from eating, typically in the morning after a period of sleep. It derived from the Old English word "fæstan," meaning "to fast" and "brecan," meaning "to break."
Historically, the concept of fasting has been intertwined with religious practices as a form of self-discipline, purification, and spiritual reflection. In this context, "broke one's fast" refers to the act of ending a religious fast, such as during Ramadan for Muslims or Lent for Christians. It symbolizes the resumption of normal eating habits, signifying a period of reflection or devotion has come to an end.
In contemporary usage, "broke one's fast" is commonly used to describe the act of eating breakfast, which literally means "breaking the fast" of the night's sleep and not eating anything for an extended period. It recognizes the importance of replenishing the body with nutrients and energy to start the day.
The phrase can also be employed metaphorically, outside the context of eating, to describe the end of any period of self-discipline, deprivation, or restraint. For instance, someone who has taken a break from social media and then resumes using it could say that they have "broken their fast" from it.
Overall, "broke one's fast" conveys the notion of ending a period of abstinence from food or other practices, symbolizing the start of a new phase and the satisfaction of fulfilling one's basic needs.
