Go broke
Meaning
To lose all of one's money and assets, resulting in financial ruin or bankruptcy.
Origin
The term "broke," meaning financially ruined, originates from the 16th century, stemming from the Old English "brecan" (to shatter). Envision a merchant's ledger, once pristine, now "broken" by overwhelming debt, or a business "shattered" beyond repair. The vivid phrase "go broke" gained prominence in the 19th century, an era of burgeoning industry and complex financial markets. It powerfully conveyed the stark reality of financial collapse, portraying a person or entity literally "going" into a state of utter destitution, their fortunes as fragmented and irreparable as a broken object.
Examples
- After several bad investments and a failed business venture, the entrepreneur feared he would go broke and lose everything.
- Many small businesses struggled during the economic downturn, and some unfortunately had to go broke.