Injure

Definition

Injure is a verb that means to cause physical harm, damage, or impairment to a person, animal, or object. It can also refer to harming someone's reputation or feelings.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈɪn.dʒər/
• Respelling: IN-jer

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈɪn.dʒər/
• Respelling: IN-juh

Etymology

The word "injure" originates from the Latin "injuriare," meaning "to do wrong or harm," derived from "in-" (not) and "jus" (right, law). It entered Middle English in the 14th century through Old French "injurier," retaining its meaning of causing harm.

Derivatives

• Injury (noun)
• Injurious (adjective)
• Injuring (verb, present participle)
• Reinjure (verb)
• Non-injurious (adjective)

Synonyms

• Harm
• Damage
• Wound

Antonyms

• Heal
• Protect
• Repair

Usage

The term "injure" is commonly used in medical, legal, and emotional contexts. For example, "He was injured in a car accident," or "Harsh criticism can injure someone's confidence."

Related Terms

• Trauma: Severe physical or emotional injury.
• Damage: Physical harm that impairs value or usefulness.
• Wound: An injury to the body, typically involving a break in the skin.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To cause physical harm or damage: Refers to harming a person, animal, or object.
  • Example: "She injured her ankle while playing soccer."
• To harm someone's reputation or feelings: Describes causing non-physical harm.
  • Example: "The false allegations injured his reputation."