Definitions:

1. to break off a piece from a whole verb
   • I couldn't help breaking away a piece of banana bread as it came out of the oven.
2. to interrupt a continued activity verb
   • They broke away mid game.
3. to move away or escape suddenly verb
   • I broke away from my chains.
4. to withdraw from an organization or communion verb
   • I broke away from the church as soon as I was able.

Synonyms:

• break
• chip
• splinter