sprain

American  

[spreyn] / spreɪn /

verb (used with object)

1. to overstrain or wrench (the ligaments of an ankle, wrist, or other joint) so as to injure without fracture or dislocation.

   Synonyms:

   twist

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noun

1. a violent straining or wrenching of the parts around a joint, without dislocation.

2. the condition of being sprained.

sprain British  

/ spreɪn /

verb

1. (tr) to injure (a joint) by a sudden twisting or wrenching of its ligaments

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noun

1. the resulting injury to such a joint, characterized by swelling and temporary disability

Related Words

See strain ¹.

Other Word Forms

• unsprained adjective

Etymology

Origin of sprain

First recorded in 1595–1605; origin uncertain

Example Sentences

Lyla had already spent more than a year dealing with pain that was initially thought to be a sprain or small fracture.

From BBC

Bilodeau’s injury was a minor knee sprain suffered in the win over Michigan State on Friday, while Dent suffered a minor calf strain early in the game against the Boilermakers.

From Los Angeles Times

Garrett sustained shoulder and biceps sprains and was sidelined for the Browns’ game that week against the Atlanta Falcons.

From Los Angeles Times

Baker-Mazara had missed three games last month because of a knee sprain and sat out practices throughout the season because of nagging minor injuries.

From Los Angeles Times

But the walk-in centre is not for medical emergencies, sprains, repeat prescriptions or long-term conditions.

From BBC

Related Words

• strain