CTE

American  

[see-tee-ee] / ˈsiˈtiˈi /

abbreviation

1. Also called dementia pugilistica.  chronic traumatic encephalopathy: a progressive degenerative neurological disease caused by repeated cerebral concussion or milder traumatic brain injury and characterized by memory loss, behavioral disturbances, speech problems, slowed movement, etc.

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Usage

What is CTE? CTE stands for chronic traumatic encephalopathy, a degenerative brain disease caused by repeated trauma to the head. The disease is especially prevalent among military veterans and professional athletes like American football players. How is CTE pronounced?[ see-tee-ee ]

Etymology

Origin of CTE

First recorded in 1945–50.

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

CTE

A diagnosis of CTE requires evidence of degeneration of brain tissue that can only be seen during an autopsy.

From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 30, 2026

Through 2022, the Boston University CTE Center studied the brains of 376 former NFL players and diagnosed 345 with CTE, a rate of 91.7%.

From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 30, 2026

Smith Jr. died Wednesday at age 64, his family saying in a statement that he “faced his long journey with dementia caused by CTE with unmatched bravery, dignity, and strength.”

From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 30, 2026

The senior coroner asked Du Plessis: "What you are saying is that the CTE that Mr Stiles clearly had, you are satisfied on the balance of probability, the cause was heading the ball?"

From BBC ● Jul. 15, 2026

Research has shown that athletes in American football, rugby and combat sports have a significantly higher risk of developing CTE than the general population.

From BBC ● Jul. 8, 2026