Splint: meaning, definitions and examples

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splint

[splɪnt ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

medical device

A rigid or flexible device used to protect and immobilize a body part that has been injured or fractured.

Synonyms

brace, cast, support.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
splint	Used in medical settings, often in first aid, to immobilize a broken or injured bone or joint temporarily before more permanent solutions like a cast are applied. The paramedic used a splint to stabilize the man's injured leg before transporting him to the hospital. You might need a splint for that wrist until you can see a doctor.
brace	Commonly used to provide support or stabilization to a joint or muscle over a long period of time, often for preventive measures or for ongoing treatment of chronic conditions. She wore a knee brace while playing sports to prevent further injury. After the accident, he had to wear a back brace for several months.
support	A broad term that can be used in various settings, medical and non-medical, to describe devices or methods that help stabilize or aid a body part or process. Often less specific than terms like 'brace' or 'splint'. He needed support for his ankle, so he used a special bandage. The chair provides good back support to maintain proper posture.
cast	Generally used in medical situations to immobilize a broken bone while it heals. It provides more permanent and stronger support compared to a splint. The doctor put a cast on my arm after it was confirmed to be broken. She had to keep the cast on her leg for six weeks.

Examples of usage

A splint is often used to support a broken arm.
She wore a splint on her injured leg to prevent further damage.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

medical treatment

To apply a splint to a body part in order to immobilize it and promote healing.

Synonyms

brace, immobilize, support.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
splint	Splints are typically used in medical settings to stabilize a broken bone or sprain by keeping it immobile. They are commonly used in emergency or first-aid situations. The paramedic applied a splint to the patient's arm to prevent further injury. After the accident, they had to put a splint on her leg until they could get to the hospital.
immobilize	Immobilize is a general term used to describe the act of preventing movement, often in a medical or mechanical context. The term can also have a broader, sometimes negative connotation, implying restriction of movement or activity. The doctors had to immobilize his arm after the surgery. In extreme cases, they may need to immobilize the entire limb to ensure proper healing.
support	Support refers to providing assistance or stability, whether physically or emotionally. In medical terms, it means to hold or brace a part of the body to aid in healing. The back support pillow helped relieve her pain during long hours of work. He used a wrist support to help manage the discomfort from carpal tunnel syndrome.
brace	Braces are used to support or stabilize joints and muscles, often over a longer period. They can be used for both medical and athletic purposes. She wore a knee brace during the marathon to support her injured ligament. The orthodontist will fit you with a brace to straighten your teeth.

Examples of usage

The doctor decided to splint the patient's fractured leg.
After the accident, they splinted his arm to prevent any movement.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'splint' comes from the Old English word 'splint', which meant 'thin piece of wood'.
Historically, splints were often made from wood or metal before modern synthetic materials were developed.

Medicine

Splints are crucial in first aid to immobilize fractures and prevent further injury during transportation to a hospital.
Different types of splints exist, including soft splints made from fabric and hard splints made from plastic or metal.

Historical Use

Splints have been used since ancient times; Egyptians are known to have used them for broken limbs as early as 3000 BC.
In the past, soldiers during wars often relied on improvised splints made from available materials in the field.

Sports Science

Athletes commonly use splints to allow injury recovery while maintaining some mobility, crucial for competitive sports.
Research has shown that splints can significantly reduce recovery time when used correctly.

Pop Culture

In movies, characters often use splints after dramatic injuries, highlighting the importance of this medical tool.
Many DIY health kits include splints, reflecting their role in everyday emergencies and preparedness.

Translations

Translations of the word "splint" in other languages:

🇵🇹 talas

🇮🇳 पट्टी

🇩🇪 Schiene

🇮🇩 bidai

🇺🇦 шина

🇵🇱 szyna

🇯🇵 添え木 (soegi)

🇫🇷 attelle

🇪🇸 férula

🇹🇷 atel

🇰🇷 부목 (bumok)

🇸🇦 جبيرة

🇨🇿 dlaha

🇸🇰 dlaha

🇨🇳 夹板 (jiābǎn)

🇸🇮 opornica

🇮🇸 spelka

🇰🇿 шина

🇬🇪 სპლინტი

🇦🇿 şina

🇲🇽 férula

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,331, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

...
17328 enchanting
17329 enshrined
17330 unsurpassed
17331 splint
17332 logistical
17333 annul
17334 legatee
...