Bruit Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ”Š
Add to dictionary

bruit

[bruหษชt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

medical term

A bruit is an abnormal sound, typically heard during auscultation with a stethoscope, indicating turbulent blood flow in the cardiovascular system. It is often associated with narrowed or obstructed arteries, and can be an important diagnostic tool for healthcare providers. Bruits can be heard in various locations of the body, like the carotid arteries in the neck or over the abdomen. The presence of a bruit may require further investigation to assess the underlying cause.

Synonyms

murmur, noise, rush, sound.

Examples of usage

  • The doctor detected a bruit in the patient's carotid artery.
  • Listening for a bruit is a routine part of a cardiovascular examination.
  • A systolic bruit may suggest stenosis in the renal arteries.
Context #2 | Verb

to spread rumor

To bruit means to spread a rumor or report widely, often without confirmation of its accuracy. This term is mostly used in a more historical or literary context to describe the act of publicizing information, especially sensational news, that may not be verified. The act of bruiting can lead to misinformation and gossip, making it critical to approach such information with skepticism.

Synonyms

broadcast, disseminate, rumor, spread.

Examples of usage

  • The news was bruited about the town quickly.
  • It is unwise to bruit about rumors without knowing the facts.
  • She bruited her doubts regarding the proposal to her friends.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • Writers often use 'bruit' to create tension or develop plots around rumors and untold stories in novels.
  • The word has been utilized in various literary works to emphasize the impact of gossip and misinformation on characters.
  • Many famous poems and plays include references to the act of bruiting as a catalyst for events.

Medicine

  • In a medical context, 'bruit' refers to an unusual sound detected during auscultation; it can indicate blood vessel abnormalities.
  • Healthcare professionals may 'bruit' to inform patients about potential health concerns linked to abnormal blood flows.
  • Studying bruits helps doctors in diagnosing conditions such as atherosclerosis or stenosis.

Pop Culture

  • In modern media, 'bruit' embodies the spread of rumors around celebrities and events, shaping public perception.
  • Social media can amplify news and 'bruits', turning whispers into viral sensations almost overnight.
  • Movies often explore how 'bruit' affects character relationships, showcasing the power of gossip.

Origin of 'bruit'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'bruit' comes from the Middle English 'brute' and is derived from the Old French word for 'noise' or 'rumor'.
  • In Latin, โ€˜bruitareโ€™ means 'to make a noise,' highlighting how the term relates to spreading news.
  • It entered the English language during the 14th century, primarily in the context of sharing whispers and rumors.

The word 'bruit' originates from the late Middle English 'bruyt', derived from the Old French 'bruit', meaning 'noise' or 'rumor'. Its etymology can be traced further back to the Latin 'bruitus', meaning 'a noise' or 'sound'. The transition of the term into medical terminology occurred in the 19th century, where it came to describe specific types of sounds related to blood flow. The dual usage of 'bruit' as both a noun and verb captures both its literary roots in spreading tales and its clinical application in medicine. Over time, 'bruit' has maintained its relevance in both contexts, illustrating the term's evolution and adaptation within the English language.


Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,657, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.