Correct spelling, explanation: the word break comes from Middle English breken, which evolved from Old English brecan. Brecan meant to separate, shatter, or damage something into two or more pieces. Break in the context of separation or damage has also maintained its core meaning over time, referring to the act of causing something to split, crack, or become discontinuous. While brake and break sound exactly the same, they have distinct etymological histories and have retained their specific meanings in the English language.

Definition of break:
1. noun, a pause in work or during an activity or event; an interruption of continuity or uniformity
Let’s take a short coffee break to recharge before we continue working on the project.
The unexpected break in the storm allowed us to enjoy a brief moment of sunshine.
2. verb, separate or cause to separate into pieces as a result of a blow, shock, or strain
Please be careful not to break the fragile glassware when you unpack the boxes.
The dish fell to the floor and broke.

Collocations with break:
Some most commonly used collocations include:
1. Lunch break: a designated period in the middle of the day when people take a break to eat lunch.
I like to go for a walk during my lunch break to get some fresh air.
2. Spring break: a vacation period for students during the spring season, often associated with travel and leisure activities.
Many college students plan exciting trips for spring break.
3. Break a record: to achieve or surpass a previous best performance or achievement.
The athlete broke a world record in the 100-meter sprint.
4. Break the news: to inform someone about something, especially when it’s important, surprising, or difficult to hear.
I had to break the news to my friend that the event had been canceled.

Correct spelling, explanation: the word brake (referring to a device for slowing or stopping) and break (referring to separation or damage) have different etymological origins, and their histories are distinct. The word brake as a mechanical device comes from Middle English brake or brak, which evolved from Old English bræc. In Old English, bræc referred to a device for grinding or breaking flax or hemp, and it eventually came to be associated with a device used to slow down or stop a vehicle, such as a wagon or cart, by applying friction to the wheels.