bruise

[bɹuːz]

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bruises - bruise

A bruise is a mark that appears on your skin after an injury, like a bump or a scrape. It's usually purple or blue and can take some time to go away.

When we get hurt, especially if it's just a minor bump or fall, our body might respond by turning the affected area into a bruise. This happens because of blood leaking from tiny broken blood vessels under our skin. The more severe the injury, the bigger and longer-lasting the bruise can be. Sometimes people get bruises even when they're not visible, like if their muscles get strained or pulled. In those cases, it's called an internal bruise or a muscle bruise.

How common is "bruise"?

Word bruise is considered uncommon in modern English.
It appears most frequently in fiction texts and less often in other writings.

Definitions

noun

A purplish mark on the skin due to leakage of blood from capillaries under the surface that have been damaged by a blow.
A dark mark on fruit or vegetables caused by a blow to the surface.

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contusionecchymosis

verb

To strike (a person), originally with something flat or heavy, but now specifically in such a way as to discolour the skin without breaking it.
To damage the skin of (fruit or vegetables), in an analogous way.
Of fruit or vegetables, to gain bruises through being handled roughly.
Example: Bananas bruise easily.
To become bruised.
Example: I bruise easily.
To fight with the fists; to box.

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Real examples of "bruises" in context

Elizabeth Olsen Feels Brave While Eating Spicy Wings | Hot Ones

Interview

I had bruises all over my legs. I got a sinus infection from all of the tears because I always have snot before tears.

14:45