abreast /əˈbɹɛst/adverb 7adjective 5preposition 1 adverb7 •Side by side and facing forward.On Sunday afternoon it was as dark as night, with barely room for two riders abreast on a gradient that touches 20%. — 2012 •Informed, well-informed, familiar, acquainted. •Followed by of or with: up to a certain level or line; equally advanced.She believes it is important to keep abreast of new scientific developments. •Side by side; also, opposite; on a line with the vessel's beam. •(figurative) Alongside; parallel to. •(Scotland) Breast high (of an advancing wave).The west wind blew a tempest, and, according to the common expression, brought in the water [of the Solway] three foot abreast. •(no longer used) At the same time; simultaneously.Abreast therewith began a convocation. — 1842 adjective5 •Side by side, facing forward. •Informed, well-informed, familiar, acquainted. •Up to a certain level or line; equally advanced •Side by side; also, opposite; over against; on a line with the vessel's beam. •(figurative) Alongside; parallel to. preposition1 •Abreast of; alongside.This ship sank abreast the island.
