Stroke Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ง
stroke
[strษสk ]
Definitions
medical condition
A stroke is a sudden interruption in the blood supply of the brain. Strokes can be caused by a blocked artery (ischemic stroke) or the leaking or bursting of a blood vessel (hemorrhagic stroke). The lack of blood flow deprives the brain of oxygen and nutrients, leading to brain cell damage or death.
Synonyms
brain attack, cerebrovascular accident.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| stroke |
Commonly used in both medical and general contexts to describe a sudden interruption in the blood supply to the brain, leading to potential damage. Suitable for all audiences.
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| cerebrovascular accident |
Formal medical terminology, more likely to be used by healthcare professionals in clinical or academic settings. It may not be well-understood by the general public without explanation.
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| brain attack |
Used to emphasize the urgency and seriousness of the condition, similar to how a 'heart attack' is discussed. Often used in public health messages or by medical professionals to stress the importance of immediate action.
|
Examples of usage
- My grandfather had a stroke last year and has been recovering ever since.
- She was rushed to the hospital after experiencing symptoms of a stroke.
swimming
In swimming, a stroke refers to the specific way of moving one's arms and legs to propel oneself through the water. There are different strokes used in competitive swimming, such as freestyle, backstroke, breaststroke, and butterfly.
Synonyms
swimming style, swimming technique.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| stroke |
This word is typically used to describe a single movement of a swimming action, especially as part of a series of such movements in a sport. It can also refer to an act of hitting or striking something.
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| swimming technique |
This refers to the detailed and precise methods or skills involved in swimming. It is often used in instructional or training settings, focusing on improving performance and efficiency in the water.
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| swimming style |
This phrase is used to refer to a specific method or form of swimming, often associated with particular movements and techniques in the water. It is often used in sports contexts.
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Examples of usage
- She is training hard to improve her butterfly stroke for the upcoming competition.
- The coach emphasized the importance of technique in mastering each swimming stroke.
action
To stroke something is to move one's hand gently along the surface of it, usually in a comforting or affectionate manner. It can also refer to caressing or petting someone or something.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| stroke |
Use 'stroke' when describing a continuous motion, often with the hand, to show affection or calmness. It can be applied to both humans and animals.
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| caress |
Choose 'caress' for a tender, gentle touch that usually indicates love or affection. It is often more intimate and romantic.
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| pet |
'Pet' is mainly used when referring to softly stroking or patting an animal. It implies an affectionate and repetitive action.
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| gentle touch |
Opt for 'gentle touch' to describe any soft, light contact that is careful and non-intrusive, often used in medical or delicate situations.
|
Examples of usage
- She stroked the cat's fur softly, calming it down.
- He gently stroked her hair as she fell asleep.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Medical Science
- More than 795,000 people in the U.S. have a stroke each year, making it a leading cause of disability.
- Two main types of strokes exist: ischemic (caused by blocked arteries) and hemorrhagic (caused by bleeding in the brain).
- The phrase 'time is brain' emphasizes the need for immediate treatment, as delays can lead to more severe brain damage.
Historical Origins
- The term 'stroke' in a medical sense comes from the Old English 'stroka', meaning โto strike or hitโ, reflecting its sudden onset.
- In ancient times, strokes were often described using terms associated with divine intervention, linking the event to the 'will of the gods'.
- In the 19th century, medical literature began to categorize strokes more precisely, paving the way for modern understanding.
Psychology
- Experiencing a stroke can lead to significant emotional changes, including depression and anxiety, impacting recovery.
- Many stroke survivors may face challenges in speech and communication, leading to feelings of isolation or frustration.
- Therapies focusing on cognitive and emotional support are essential in rehabilitation to address the psychological effects of a stroke.
Culture
- Strokes have been depicted in literature and films as critical turning points, representing both tragedy and resilience.
- In some cultures, strokes are a taboo subject, leading to stigma for both survivors and their families due to the impact on lifestyle.
- Educational campaigns are crucial to raise awareness about stroke symptoms and prevention methods in various communities.
Origin of 'stroke'
The word 'stroke' has various origins depending on its context. In the medical sense, it comes from the Old English 'stracu' meaning a 'stroke, sudden attack.' The swimming term likely derives from the movement resembling a striking action. As a verb, 'stroke' can be traced back to the Old English 'strฤcian,' meaning 'to rub lightly.' Over time, the word has evolved to encompass a range of meanings related to sudden actions, movements, and touches.
Word Frequency Rank
With rank #4,119, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.
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- 4116 expedition
- 4117 exploration
- 4118 withdrawn
- 4119 stroke
- 4120 attracted
- 4121 remark
- 4122 beer
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