turf toe

American  

[turf toh] / ˈtɜrf ˌtoʊ /

noun

1. a sprain at the joint between the metatarsus and the phalanx of the big toe, caused when the ligament connecting them under the toe is overextended: typically a sports-related injury, originally associated especially with artificial grass surfaces.

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Etymology

Origin of turf toe

First recorded in 1975–80

Example Sentences

Jackson hadn’t suited up since Week 1 while dealing with a lingering turf toe issue.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 13, 2025

Missing the game because of turf toe was Los Alamitos’ Davon Mitchell, an Oklahoma-bound tight end.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 28, 2023

Cross is dealing with what has been reported as turf toe, and Lucas with a knee issue that coach Pete Carroll on Monday defined as “patella area soreness.”

From Seattle Times • Sep. 12, 2023

Davis also stepped in for Chisholm while he was sidelined with a turf toe injury last month.

From Washington Times • Jul. 6, 2023

He endured Grade 3 turf toe and missed the remainder of Gonzaga’s 5-6 campaign — the Eagles’ first losing record since 2008.

From Washington Post • Nov. 3, 2022