The term 'breaks ground' can be defined by three crossword solutions: PLOWS (5 letters), DIGS (4 letters), and hoes (4 letters). Plowing is the process of turning over soil with a plow, which is a tool used to cut furrows in the ground. Digging is the act of using a shovel or other tool to move soil from one place to another. Hoeing is the process of using a hoe, which is a tool with a flat blade attached to a handle, to break up soil and remove weeds. All three of these activities are necessary for breaking ground and preparing it for planting.