1. Referring to a
trade on a
securities exchange that is not executed due to a priority
bid. For example, even if an offer of $15 per
share for a
security is accepted, the trade may be broken up if another offer is made for $20 per share before the initial trade takes place.
2. Referring to a company that splits into several parties, as a result of
antitrust action or to preserve a company's financial health. For example, a company may
spin off an unprofitable division.