Meaning

(transitive) 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 contuse..

Definitions by Sense

1. (transitive) 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 contuse.
2. (transitive) To damage the skin of (fruit or vegetables), in an analogous way.
3. (intransitive) Of fruit or vegetables, to gain bruises through being handled roughly.
4. (intransitive) To become bruised.
5. (intransitive) To fight with the fists; to box.
6. (transitive, figurative) To harm or injure somebody's feelings or self-esteem.
7. (transitive) To impair (gin) by shaking rather than stirring.
8. A purplish mark on the skin due to leakage of blood from capillaries under the surface that have been damaged by a blow.

Example Sentences

It is as I have spoken: the testing first, next the bruising, and in the last bout the breaking and killing.

Bananas bruise easily.

I bruise easily.

Bruising was considered a fine, manly, old English custom.

Her thoughtless remarks bruised my ego.

I was bruised by such wanton criticism.

Word Forms

• bruises
• bruising
• bruised
• bruize
• brise

Synonyms for bruise

Related Words

When Should You Use Bruise?

Use bruise when its meaning, tone and grammar fit the full sentence. A synonym is not always a direct replacement.

Practice This Word

Frequently Asked Questions