verb

sprain

to sprain

I sprained my ankle playing soccer.

I sprained my ankle playing football.

Be careful not to sprain your wrist.

Be careful not to sprain your wrist.

((sth.)) to sprain (a body part) She sprained her knee.

Synonyms: twist, wrench

The origin is uncertain, but it might be related to the Old French 'espreindre' (to press out).

'Sprain' sounds like 'strain' and 'pain', which is what you feel when you sprain something.

This page is designed for learning support. Please use it as a learning reference, not as a formal reference.