Meaning & use

stroke

noun·Academic

A sudden, serious medical condition caused by a blocked or burst blood vessel in the brain.

See it in a sentence

He suffered a stroke last year but has since regained most of his speech.

Doctors monitor blood pressure closely to help patients avoid a future stroke.

A note on using this word

A stroke is a medical emergency requiring immediate attention, since prompt treatment greatly affects the chances of recovery.

Words with a similar meaning

This term is best learned through its definition and examples.

Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.

Another way to use it

2. noun

A single movement of the arms and legs in swimming, or of an oar in rowing.

Her freestyle stroke looked smooth and effortless as she glided through the water.

3. verb

To move one's hand gently and repeatedly over something, as a gesture of affection.

She reached down to stroke the cat curled up on her lap.

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