Langimage
English

sprain

|sprain|

B1

/spreɪn/

joint injury

Etymology
Etymology Information

'sprain' originates from Middle French, specifically the word 'espreindre,' where 'es-' meant 'out' and 'preindre' meant 'to press.'

Historical Evolution

'espreindre' transformed into the English word 'sprain' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to press out,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'injury to a joint.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

an injury to a joint, such as an ankle, wrist, or knee, caused by a sudden twist or wrenching of its ligaments.

He suffered a sprain while playing basketball.

Synonyms

Verb 1

to cause an injury to a joint by a sudden twist or wrenching of its ligaments.

She sprained her ankle during the hike.

Synonyms

Last updated: 2025/02/21 17:06