concussion
kun-KUSH-un
/kənˈkʌʃən/
A temporary unconsciousness or confusion caused by a blow on the head; a mild traumatic brain injury.
It specifically refers to the functional impairment of the brain rather than structural damage like a bleed.
The story behind the word. From the Latin 'concutere,' which means 'to shake violently.' It describes the brain being shaken inside the skull like a bell clapper.
Word relationships
- brain injury: A concussion is a specific, usually less severe type of traumatic brain injury (TBI).
Commonly confused with
- contusion: A concussion is a functional brain injury; a contusion is a physical bruise on the brain tissue.
Word family
- concussive (adjective): Relating to or caused by a concussion.
Collocations
- suffer a concussion
- concussion protocol
- mild concussion
Example sentences
- "He had suffered a concussion in the first half of the game against Wales." Reporting on a sports injury during a match.
Memory hook
Concussion = Confusion. If you have a concussion, you are likely confused. The brain's violent shake.
When not to use
Do not use for a simple bump on the head that doesn't cause neurological symptoms like dizziness or memory loss.
Fun facts
- You don't have to lose consciousness to have a concussion; most concussions occur without a 'blackout'.
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