Broach

/broʊtʃ/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A thin, pointed tool for boring holes.

He used a broach to create the required precision hole in the metal.

verb

To bring up a subject for discussion.

She decided to broach the topic of vacation plans during dinner.

To open up or break into a conversation.

It's always awkward to broach sensitive subjects, but honesty is important.

To pierce or make a hole in something.

The mechanic had to broach the fuel tank to fix the leakage.

From Middle English 'broche', from Old French 'broche'.

broach a subject

to bring up a topic for discussion

broach the issue

to introduce a matter that needs addressing

approach

to come near or confront someone or something in order to discuss

discuss

to talk about something with someone else

mention

to refer to something briefly and without going into detail

To bring something up casually or lightly.

He casually broached the topic at dinner.

To start a potentially awkward conversation.

She broached the delicate subject of their relationship.