service break

noun

, Tennis.

1. an instance of a player winning a game against a server.
2. a game won against an opponent's service.

Word History and Origins

Origin of service break¹

First recorded in 1950–55

Example Sentences

He won the fourth set, again with a service break in the 10th game, recovering immediately to win three points after mis-hitting a forehand so far out that it shocked the Rod Laver Arena crowd.

From Seattle Times

The second set was tight, until Sabalenka got a service break in the ninth game.

From Seattle Times

It was Fritz who got the first service break to open the second set, having fended off eight in the first set against him.

From Seattle Times

Gauff took the vital service break in the eighth game and again faced a break point before serving out the set and match.

From Seattle Times

That meant Rune got the point, and when he won the next one, too, he had a service break.

From Washington Times