hand brake

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Explanation of "Hand Brake"

Definition:
A "hand brake" is a type of brake in a vehicle that you operate with your hand, rather than your foot. It is used to keep the vehicle from moving when it is parked or to help slow down the vehicle in certain situations. Usually, it works through a mechanical system that connects it to the brakes of the car.

Advanced Usage:

• In some cars, the hand brake is also known as the emergency brake because it can be used in case the main brakes fail.

Word Variants:

• Handbrake: This is an alternative spelling of "hand brake" and is commonly used in British English.
• Emergency Brake: Another term for the hand brake that emphasizes its function in emergencies.

Different Meanings:

• In some contexts, "hand brake" might refer to a similar mechanism on bicycles or other machinery, where a lever is used to slow down or stop movement.

Synonyms:

• Parking brake: A term often used interchangeably with hand brake, especially in a legal or technical context.
• Hand lever: A broader term that may refer to any lever operated by hand, not just brakes.

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

Though "hand brake" does not have specific idioms or phrasal verbs associated with it, you might use phrases like: - "Put the brakes on something": This means to stop or slow down progress on a project or plan.

Summary:

The "hand brake" is an essential safety feature in vehicles, used primarily for parking and in emergencies.

Academic

Noun

1. a brake operated by hand; usually operates by mechanical linkage

Synonyms

• emergency
• emergency brake
• parking brake