break cover

phrase

variants or less commonly break covert
: to run out suddenly from a hiding place, covert (see covert entry 2 sense 1), or lair

Examples of break cover in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
No, not the Q7, although a third-generation version of that vehicle broke cover in June. — Jonathan M. Gitlin, ArsTechnica, 29 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1723, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of break cover was in 1723

Rhymes for break cover

See All Rhymes for break cover

Browse Nearby Words

break camp
break cover
breakdance
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Break cover.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/break%20cover. Accessed 3 Aug. 2026.

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Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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