die Bremse
Translation
brake, horsefly, gadfly
Examples
Die Bremse am Auto funktioniert nicht.
The brake on the car doesn't work.
Eine Bremse hat mich ins Bein gestochen.
A horsefly stung me on the leg.
Grammar Patterns
die Bremse the brake The brake is squeaking.
auf die Bremse treten to step on the brake You have to step on the brake hard.
Similar Words
Synonyms: (brake) Hemmung, Halt; (insect) Stechfliege
Etymology
From Middle High German 'bremsen' (to check, press). The insect is named for its persistent, 'braking' bite.
Memory Tips
Imagine hitting the 'Bremse' (brake) because a giant 'Bremse' (horsefly) is on your windscreen. This connects the two meanings.