stress fracture

noun

: a usually hairline fracture of a bone that has been subjected to repeated stress

Examples of stress fracture in a Sentence

The gymnast developed a stress fracture in her ankle.

Recent Examples on the Web

The Knicks’ defensive anchor has undergone two surgeries to repair stress fractures in his left ankle. —Kristian Winfield, New York Daily News, 21 Mar. 2026

Repetitive impact on hard surfaces is one of the leading causes of running injuries, including stress fractures, according to Yale Medicine. —Nicole Bennett, AJC.com, 20 Mar. 2026

Cameron Flukey, who helped lead Coastal to the College World Series finals last year, has a stress fracture in his rib and won't be able to fill his usual Friday night role. —David Eckert, Austin American Statesman, 28 Feb. 2026

In 2024, Carpenter endured a stay on the 60-day IL with a lumbar spine stress fracture. —Cody Stavenhagen, New York Times, 20 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1943, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for stress fracture

• contracture
• facture
• manufacture

Medical Definition

stress fracture

noun

: a usually hairline fracture of a bone (as of the foot or lower leg) that has been subjected to repeated stress

occurrence of stress fractures among joggers