Logo
Search icon

bruise

/bɹuːz/

noun

Meaning

  • 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.

Synonyms

contusion,
ecchymosis

verb

Meaning

  • 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.

    "Bananas bruise easily."

  • To become bruised.

    "I bruise easily."

  • To fight with the fists; to box.