sprain
[ spreyn ]
/ spreɪn /
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.
Origin of sprain
First recorded in 1595–1605; origin uncertain
OTHER WORDS FROM sprain
un·sprained, adjectiveWords nearby sprain
sprachgefühl,
spraddle,
spraddle-legged,
sprag,
sprague,
sprain,
sprain fracture,
spraint,
sprang,
sprat,
spratly islands
Example sentences from the Web for sprain
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
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.