sprain

[spreyn]

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

noun

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

2. the condition of being sprained.

sprain

/ spreɪn /

verb

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

noun

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

Other Word Forms

• unsprained adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of sprain¹

First recorded in 1595–1605; origin uncertain

Word History and Origins

Origin of sprain¹

C17: of uncertain origin

Synonym Study

See strain ¹.

Example Sentences

This was a Commanders offense missing star receiver Terry McLaurin, and with Daniels ostensibly limited by a sprained knee and bulky brace.

From Los Angeles Times

Enter Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels, last season’s Offensive Rookie of the Year who is recovering from a sprained knee.

From Los Angeles Times

A light oil sheen, a sprained ankle and waterlogged cargo were among the damage reported when approximately 75 cargo containers tumbled off a stationed vessel at the Port of Long Beach on Tuesday morning.

From Los Angeles Times

Blake Treinen was a postseason hero last year but he was sidelined for more than three months with a forearm sprain and has struggled with consistency since his return.

From Los Angeles Times

O’Neal was playing with a badly aching arthritic big toe, a sprained wrist and a handful of unlisted bangs and bruises.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• strain