Definition

A rigid device used to support and immobilize a broken bone or joint to help it heal properly.

Example

The doctor applied a splint to the patient's arm to keep the fracture stable.

Conversation

I heard you hurt your ankle while playing soccer.

Yeah, I think I might need a splint to keep it stable.

That sounds serious! Have you seen a doctor yet?

Not yet, but I'm planning to go and get a splint if necessary.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To support or hold a broken bone or injured part of the body in place using a rigid device.

Example

The doctor decided to splint the patient's fractured arm to keep it stable during recovery.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I heard you had an accident while playing basketball.

Yeah, I twisted my ankle pretty badly.

Did you splint it to keep it stable?

Root Explanation

Splint → The word 'splint' originates from Middle English 'splinte', which comes from Old English 'spliht', meaning a thin piece of wood or a splinter. It refers to a thin strip used to support or immobilize a broken bone or joint.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'thin piece of wood' ('spliht') that helps to support or hold something in place, like a broken bone.

Visually Confused Words