ME. variant of BREST, ‘defect, want.’

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a. 1300.  Cursor M., 6344. Wit-vten ani brek or brist.

2

a. 1340.  Hampole, Pr. Consc., 6205. Loverd when saw we þe haf hunger or thirst Or of any herber haf grete brist.

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c. 1450.  Erle of Tolous, 833. Hys wyfe had seche a bryste.

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