break camp

Idioms and Phrases

Take down a tent and pack up other gear; also, leave a place, move out. For example, The landlord has to return my rent deposit before I'll break camp . Originally camp denoted a military encampment, but by the mid-1500s the term had been transferred to temporary outdoor sites used by hunters and the like. By the 19th century, the current term was in use. Thus, “It is the hunter's rule to see that the fire is extinguished ... before breaking camp.” (F.H. Guillemard, Cruise of Marchesa I , 1886).

Example Sentences

The stipulation is that players with little or no MLB service time need to break camp with the team or be called up within two weeks of Opening Day.

From Seattle Times

“He’s an interesting guy who could certainly pitch for us at some point this season, even if he doesn’t break camp,” Mariners manager Scott Servais said.

From Seattle Times

In order to get there, they want the 25-year-old to be as adjusted as possible to his new surroundings by the time they break camp.

From Los Angeles Times

That comfort level was tough to find a year ago, even though the Kraken ultimately broke camp with Wright for eight NHL games.

From Seattle Times

It was a sunny day, and around me the women were busy breaking camp.

From Literature