broached

Broached is the past tense and past participle of the verb broach. The word has several distinct senses in English, reflecting the core idea of opening, introducing, or turning a thing to access its contents or sides.

In discourse, to broach means to bring up for discussion, often something sensitive or controversial. A speaker might broach a difficult topic during a meeting or debate, signaling a request to address it.

In mechanical and craft contexts, to broach a hole or opening is to enlarge and shape it using a broach, a long, toothed cutting tool. Broaching is a machining operation used to produce precise holes, keyways, and other profiles with close tolerances.

To broach a cask or keg is to pierce its bung or head so that the contents can be drawn through a tap. This sense is common in historical or traditional beverage service, and the term remains used in some brewing and wine contexts.

In maritime usage, to broach refers to a vessel turning broadside to the sea, or the condition of such a turn. The phrase “broached to” describes a ship exposed to waves with its broadside facing the sea, a potentially dangerous situation requiring corrective action.