bruise
brooz
Bruise (noun) means a discoloured mark on the skin caused by a blow that damages blood vessels underneath without breaking the surface. Example: “He had a nasty bruise on his shin from bumping into the table.”
noun
1
A discoloured mark on the skin caused by a blow that damages blood vessels underneath without breaking the surface.
"He had a nasty bruise on his shin from bumping into the table."
verb
1
To cause this kind of mark by striking or knocking something.
"She bruised her arm falling off her bike."
2
To hurt someone's feelings or pride.
"The harsh review bruised his confidence."
How to use bruise
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA dark mark left on skin (or fruit) by an impact, or the act of causing one — also used figuratively for hurt feelings.
Common pairings
bruise easily
bruised ego
a bad bruise
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Word forms
- Plural
- bruises
- Third person singular
- bruises
- Past tense
- bruised
Fill the gap
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He had a nasty _____ on his shin from bumping into the table.
Etymology
From Old English brȳsan, "to crush", blended with a related Old French word for breaking or smashing something.
Related words
Rhymes for bruise
See all rhymes for bruise →Frequently asked questions
What does “bruise” mean?
The word “bruise” means a discoloured mark on the skin caused by a blow that damages blood vessels underneath without breaking the surface. In plain terms, a dark mark left on skin (or fruit) by an impact, or the act of causing one — also used figuratively for hurt feelings.
How do you pronounce “bruise”?
“Bruise” is pronounced brooz (/bɹuːz/ in IPA).
How do you use “bruise” in a sentence?
Here is “bruise” used in a sentence: “He had a nasty bruise on his shin from bumping into the table.”
What is another word for “bruise”?
Words with a similar meaning to “bruise” include contusion.
What part of speech is “bruise”?
Depending on how it is used, “bruise” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “bruise” come from?
The word “bruise” comes from Old French. From Old English brȳsan, "to crush", blended with a related Old French word for breaking or smashing something.
Is “bruise” a common word?
“Bruise” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “bruise” have?
“Bruise” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a discoloured mark on the skin caused by a blow that damages blood vessels underneath without breaking the surface.
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