sprain

 
Pronunciation: /spreɪn/

verb

[with object]
  • wrench or twist the ligaments of (an ankle, wrist, or other joint) violently so as to cause pain and swelling but not dislocation: he left in a wheelchair after spraining an ankle

noun

  • the result of spraining a joint: a compress for treating sprains and bruises

Origin:

early 17th century: of unknown origin