sprain
[ spreyn ]
/ spreɪn /
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verb (used with object)
to overstrain or wrench (the ligaments of an ankle, wrist, or other joint) so as to injure without fracture or dislocation.
noun
a violent straining or wrenching of the parts around a joint, without dislocation.
the condition of being sprained.
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Origin of sprain
First recorded in 1595–1605; origin uncertain
synonym study for sprain
1. See strain1.
OTHER WORDS FROM sprain
un·sprained, adjectiveWords nearby sprain
Sprachgefühl, spraddle, spraddle-legged, sprag, Sprague, sprain, sprain fracture, spraint, sprang, sprat, Spratly Islands
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2021
How to use sprain in a sentence
British Dictionary definitions for sprain
sprain
/ (spreɪn) /
verb
(tr) to injure (a joint) by a sudden twisting or wrenching of its ligaments
noun
the resulting injury to such a joint, characterized by swelling and temporary disability
Word Origin for sprain
C17: of uncertain origin
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
© William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins
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Medical definitions for sprain
sprain
[ sprān ]
n.
An injury to a ligament when the joint is carried through a range of motion greater than its normal range without dislocation or fracture.
v.
To cause a sprain to a joint or ligament.
The American Heritage® Stedman's Medical Dictionary
Copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company.