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Bruising Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿฉน
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bruising

[หˆbruหzษชล‹ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

physical injury

Bruising refers to the discoloration of the skin that occurs when small blood vessels break and leak blood into the surrounding tissues, typically due to impact or injury. It often results in a blue or purple mark on the skin, which may change color as it heals. Bruises can vary in size and severity, and while they are usually harmless, they can sometimes indicate more serious underlying conditions. The healing process can take several days to weeks, depending on the severity of the bruise.

Synonyms

contusion, hematoma, injury, mark.

Examples of usage

  • He showed me the bruising on his arm after he fell.
  • She was worried about the bruising after the mild collision.
  • The doctor checked the bruising for any signs of fractures.
Context #2 | Verb

to injure

To bruise means to inflict a bruise on someone or something. It can refer to causing physical trauma to the skin, but it may also be used metaphorically to describe emotional or psychological hurt. Bruising can happen from direct blows, falls, or bumps, and signifies various degrees of damage depending on the force applied.

Synonyms

contuse, damage, hurt, injure.

Examples of usage

  • Be careful not to bruise the fruit when packing.
  • He managed to bruise her feelings with his harsh words.
  • The athlete bruised his leg while training.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Medical Insights

  • Bruises occur when tiny blood vessels under your skin break and leak blood, causing the skin to change colors.
  • Over time, a bruise can change from purple to green and yellow as it heals, showing the body's repair process.
  • People with thinner skin or certain medical conditions may bruise more easily than others.

Language and Etymology

  • The term 'bruise' comes from the Old French word 'bruisier,' meaning to crush or break.
  • In historical texts, bruising was often associated with various ailments, reflecting deeper cultural attitudes towards health and injury.
  • The phrase 'bruising defeat' originated in sports, describing a team that loses particularly hard, likening emotional pain to physical bruising.

Cultural References

  • In art, the colors associated with bruises are sometimes used to symbolize emotional pain or struggles.
  • Songs and literature often use bruising as a metaphor for emotional wounds, representing how experiences can harm us on the inside.
  • Popular media sometimes portrays characters with visible bruises to signify resilience and survival against challenges.

Psychology

  • Research suggests that individuals with low self-esteem may perceive physical bruises more negatively, reflecting internal feelings.
  • The act of 'bruising' emotionally can tie into psychological aspects, where a person feels hurt by harsh words or criticism, much like a physical injury.
  • Studies indicate that those who engage in sports may experience a higher tolerance for bruising, associating it with achievements and resilience.

Sports and Fitness

  • Athletes commonly experience bruises as part of their training, with contact sports leading to frequent injuries.
  • Understanding techniques for minimizing bruising, like proper warm-ups and using protective gear, is essential for sports safety.
  • In sports medicine, managing bruising effectively is vital for recovery, including rest, ice application, and elevation.

Origin of 'bruising'

The word 'bruise' originates from the Middle English term 'bruisen', which likely derived from the Old French word 'bruisier', meaning 'to break or crush'. It is believed to have its roots in the Latin 'frangere', meaning 'to break'. The use of the word has evolved over centuries, initially referring primarily to physical damage caused by impact, but has since broadened to include emotional or psychological damage as well. The concept of bruising is common across various cultures, highlighting the universal nature of physical injury and its representation in language. The transition of โ€˜bruisingโ€™ into its adjective form reflects the pervasive nature of this kind of injury in everyday experiences.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,282, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.