bruise
verb (used with object)
to injure by striking or pressing, without breaking the skin.
had bruised
-
past perfectof bruise.past perfect
Used to express a completed action that took place before another specific past action occurred.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Earlier in the session, major cryptocurrency prices were trending down following renewed threats from the U.S External link. and Iran External link over the weekend, which had bruised financial markets.
From Barron's ● Mar. 23, 2026
X-rays later revealed that Malone, 27, had bruised his ribs, said his manager Dre London in an Instagram post also refuting rumors that the “Celebration” performer had broken three ribs.
From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 19, 2022
The Utes played without their starting point guard Rylan Jones, who was second on the team in minutes played, but had bruised ribs.
From Seattle Times ● Dec. 14, 2019
After the disaster, he found he had bruised ribs but did not require hospital treatment.
From BBC ● Oct. 8, 2014
So the women, to justify their own judgment, cherished their men more, soothed the pride and vanity Sula had bruised.
From "Sula" by Toni Morrison
