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Synonyms

laceration

American  
[las-uh-rey-shuhn] / ˌlæs əˈreɪ ʃən /

noun

  1. the result of lacerating; a rough, jagged tear.

  2. the act of lacerating.


Other Word Forms

  • self-laceration noun

Etymology

Origin of laceration

First recorded in 1590–1600, laceration is from the Latin word lacerātiōn- (stem of lacerātiō ). See lacerate, -ion

Explanation

A laceration is a tear, cut, or gash. Your heart can also get a more figurative laceration when you see your love kissing another. Either way, ouch. A laceration implies that there is a tearing or jaggedness to the wound. A surgeon would not make a laceration on a patient, but an incision. Lacerations are reserved for things like barbed wire, errant nails, and fickle loves.

Keep Reading on Vocabulary.com

Vocabulary lists containing laceration

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.

An agent who was inside one of the vehicles suffered a hand laceration, according to the complaint filed against Reyna.

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 23, 2025

Gerolsteiner Sparkling Water has been recalled "due to laceration hazard," as announced in a recall last week, which applies to over 60,000 bottles.

From Salon • Mar. 19, 2025

Court coordinator Andy Flack said Ms Hempstead was taken to Southend Hospital for treatment after being found by police with a "laceration to her upper limb" on 29 July.

From BBC • Aug. 15, 2024

Mr Tran, who was sitting next to his friend one row behind the section which blew out, said he suffered injuries including a laceration to his leg.

From BBC • Mar. 22, 2024

Upon discovering that Bertha Palmer was the wife of the hotel’s owner, she inflicted a social laceration that Chicago would never forget or forgive.

From "The Devil in the White City" by Erik Larson