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

“Too many NFL players are developing ALS during life and diagnosed with CTE after death. I donated Steve’s brain to inspire new research into the link between them.”

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 7, 2026

Hall of Fame defensive tackle Steve McMichael, a key member of the Super Bowl XX champion Chicago Bears, has been diagnosed posthumously with Stage 3 chronic traumatic encephalopathy, the Concussion & CTE Foundation said Tuesday.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 7, 2026

A 2023 Boston University study found that 91.7% of nearly 400 post-mortem brains of former NFL players contained CTE, a progressive neurodegenerative disease caused by repeated head trauma.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 13, 2026

"There is no support, there is nothing at all - I've been to see two neurologists, neither neurologist had any in-depth knowledge of CTE," Ross said.

From BBC • Mar. 5, 2026

In 2024, Ross was diagnosed with early onset dementia and CTE, a brain condition thought to be linked to repeated head injuries and blows to the head.

From BBC • Mar. 5, 2026