The term 'bruise' is used in both literal and figurative senses. Medically, it refers to minor injuries where the skin remains intact but blood vessels break, causing discoloration. Figuratively, it can describe emotional or psychological damage. The word is common in literature and daily speech, symbolizing both harm and recovery. A deeper understanding of the word includes its historical use in describing physical and abstract injuries, reflecting its versatility in English.
bruise in English
- bruise⇄bruise, noun, verb, bruised,bruising.
- bruise⇄noun 1a. an injury to the body, caused by a fall or blow, that breaks blood vessels without breaking the skin; contusion.
Ex. The bruise on my arm turned black and blue.
b. an injury to the outside of a fruit, vegetable, or plant.
Ex. - bruise⇄v.i. to become bruised.
Ex. Her flesh bruises easily. - bruise⇄v.t. 1a. to injure the outside of.
Ex. Though not cut, his knees were bruised when he fell. Rough handling bruised the apples before they could be sold.
b. (Figurative:)
Ex. Harsh words bruised her feelings.
(SYN) injure, hurt.
bruise in Sindhi سنڌي
bruise in Tamil தமிழ்
Bruise
Part of Speech
Noun, Verb
Pronunciation
Noun: /bruːz/, Verb: /bruːz/
Definitions
- Noun: A discoloration of the skin caused by injury, resulting from the rupture of underlying blood vessels.
- Verb: To inflict such an injury on someone or something.
Usage Examples
- Noun: She had a bruise on her arm after bumping into the table.
- Verb: The fruit bruises easily if not handled carefully.
Etymology
From Middle English bruisen, from Old French bruisier, meaning "to break, crush." Related to Old High German brūzan, meaning "to crush." First recorded in English in the 13th century.
Synonyms
- Contusion (Noun)
- Injure (Verb)
Antonyms
- Heal (Verb)
- Unblemished (Adjective)
Translations
| Language | Translation | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| French | Ecchymose | /ɛ.kʃi.moz/ |
| Hindi | नील | /niːl/ |
| Spanish | Moretón | /mo.ɾeˈton/ |
Regional Pronunciation Variations
American: /bruːz/, British: /bruːz/
Historical Usage
The word 'bruise' has been used since the Middle Ages to describe physical injuries as well as metaphorical damage, such as emotional hurt.
Cultural Nuances
In some cultures, a bruise can symbolize hardship or endurance, while in others, it may have associations with vulnerability or carelessness. Metaphorically, it often represents emotional pain or resilience.