contusion

noun

con·​tu·​sion kən-ˈtü-zhən 

-ˈtyü-

: injury to tissue usually without laceration : bruise sense 1a

contuse

kən-ˈtüz 

-ˈtyüz

transitive verb

Synonyms

• bruise

Examples of contusion in a Sentence

He suffered multiple contusions of the leg.

suffered multiple contusions as a result of a car accident

Recent Examples on the Web

Ragusa said Giuliani was transported to a nearby trauma center where he was found with a fractured thoracic vertebra and multiple lacerations and contusions. —Chad De Guzman, Time, 1 Sep. 2025

Giuliani suffered a fractured vertebra, multiple lacerations and contusions, and injuries to his left arm and lower leg. —Brady Knox, The Washington Examiner, 1 Sep. 2025

Getty Images Key Facts Giuliani, 81, was diagnosed with a fractured thoracic vertebrae, multiple lacerations and contusions in addition to unspecified injuries to his left arm and leg after his vehicle was struck from behind late Saturday, according to spokesperson Michael Ragusa. —Ty Roush, Forbes.com, 31 Aug. 2025

While the swelling did eventually subside, Hull was left with contusions under her eyes. —Chantz Martin, FOXNews.com, 30 Aug. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English conteschown, from Latin contusion-, contusio, from contundere to pound, bruise, from com- + tundere to beat; akin to Goth stautan to strike, Sanskrit tudati he pushes

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for contusion

• allusion
• collusion
• conclusion
• confusion
• delusion
• diffusion
• effusion
• exclusion
• extrusion
• illusion
• inclusion
• infusion

Kids Definition

contusion

noun

con·​tus·​ion

kən-ˈt(y)ü-zhən

: an injury to tissue that usually does not break the skin : bruise

contuse

-ˈt(y)üz

verb

Medical Definition

contusion

noun

con·​tu·​sion kən-ˈt(y)ü-zhən 

: injury to tissue usually without laceration : bruise sense 1

contuse

-ˈt(y)üz 

transitive verb

contused; contusing