Meaning & Definition of word "Splint"

Splint

/splɪnt/

noun:

  • 1. A device used to support and immobilize a broken bone or injured body part.
    • Example: The doctor applied a splint to my broken arm to ensure it healed properly.
  • 2. A strip of rigid material used for the same purpose as above, commonly made of metal, wood, or thermoplastic.
    • Example: He fashioned a splint out of a popsicle stick and some tape to stabilize the injury until he could see a doctor.
  • 3. A support or brace for an injured body part, especially in first aid or sport contexts.
    • Example: After spraining her ankle, she was advised to use a splint to reduce the swelling.

verb:

  • 1. To fix or support an injured body part with a splint.
    • Example: The paramedic splinted the injured leg before transporting the patient to the hospital.
  • 2. To immobilize a broken or injured bone using a splint.
    • Example: He carefully splinted the dislocated finger to prevent further damage.

Etymology

Middle English, from Old French 'splint' meaning 'to splint, chip of wood'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

on a splint:

To be in a state of restricted movement due to an injury.

splint it:

To apply a splint to an injured body part.

make-shift splint:

An improvised splint created from available materials.

Related Words

fracture:

A break in the bone.

immobilization:

The process of preventing movement in a body part.

cast:

A stiff covering made to support and secure a broken bone.

Slang Meanings of splint

Meaning: To splint someone up

Example Sentence: After he twisted his ankle, they splinted him up to keep him stable.

Meaning: Get splinted

Example Sentence: You might need to get splinted if you keep playing on that sprained wrist.