Contusion Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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contusion
[kənˈtjuːʒ(ə)n ]
Definitions
medical
A region of injured tissue or skin in which blood capillaries have been ruptured; a bruise.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| contusion |
A more formal medical term for a bruise, often used in clinical or professional settings to describe injuries with a broader or more severe impact under the skin.
|
| bruise |
A common term used in everyday language to describe a minor injury on the skin causing discoloration without a break in the skin. Often used in casual or medical contexts.
|
| hematoma |
A more serious medical condition involving a collection of blood outside of blood vessels, typically forming a lump under the skin. Used in medical contexts to describe deeper or more severe injuries.
|
| ecchymosis |
A medical term used to describe a large, flat bruise, usually with more severe skin discoloration. Often used in clinical settings.
|
Examples of usage
- The contusion on his arm was turning purple.
- She suffered a contusion on her forehead after the accident.
general
A state of being crushed, damaged, or destroyed.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| contusion |
Medical or sports contexts to describe a bruise without a break in the skin.
|
Examples of usage
- The team's morale was a contusion after losing the championship game.
- The political scandal left a contusion on his reputation.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Medical Understanding
- A contusion occurs when small blood vessels break, causing blood to leak into surrounding tissues.
- The severity of a contusion can vary, with some being minor and only causing slight discoloration, while others may require medical attention.
- Symptoms usually include pain, swelling, and discoloration, which can change color as the injury heals.
Historical Origins
- The term 'contusion' comes from the Latin word 'contusio,' meaning 'to bruise or strike'.
- It has been used in medical texts for centuries to describe soft tissue injuries.
- Ancient Greeks recognized bruises and had methods for treatment, including herbal remedies.
Sports and Injury Prevention
- Injuries such as contusions are common in contact sports like football and martial arts.
- Wearing protective gear can help minimize the risk of contusions during physical activities.
- Proper warm-up and cooldown exercises can also reduce the likelihood of sustaining a bruise.
Art and Culture
- Contusions have been depicted in art to represent struggle or injury, evoking empathy from viewers.
- In literature, characters with contusions often symbolize resilience in the face of adversity.
- Visual artists use the colors of a contusion (purple, blue, and green) to convey drama or emotional pain.
Origin of 'contusion'
The word 'contusion' originated from the Latin word 'contusio', which means 'a bruising'. The term has been used in medical contexts since the 16th century to describe a region of injured tissue or skin in which blood capillaries have been ruptured. Over time, 'contusion' has also been used in a more general sense to describe a state of being crushed, damaged, or destroyed.