Definitions

stroke

[strohk] / stroʊk /

NOUN

a blow, a striking

Synonyms

STRONGEST

blow

STRONG

hit move movement

NOUN

accomplishment

Synonyms

STRONG

achievement coup deed feat

Antonyms

STRONG

failure inaction inactivity

NOUN

seizure

Synonyms

STRONGEST

collapse shock

STRONG

apoplexy attack convulsion fit

VERB

pat lengthwise

Synonyms

STRONGEST

brush caress rub

STRONG

chuck comfort fondle pet smooth soothe tickle

Antonyms

STRONG

aggravate agitate distress irritate upset

Frequently Asked Questions

What is another word for stroke (medical)?

The sudden loss of brain function most commonly called a stroke is also known by several other names: apoplexy, cerebrovascular accident, cerebral accident, and cerebral infarction. Strokes can be caused by a cerebral hemorrhage, and that term is sometimes used to refer to a type of stroke. Synonyms for cerebral hemorrhage include encephalorrhagia and hematencephalon. The word stroke is also used in other medical conditions, including heatstroke and sunstroke.

What is another word for stroke (general)?

The word stroke has several different senses. movement As a noun, stroke can refer to a movement or motion, such as of a pen, brush, or similar implement, or the (often repeated) motion of a machine part. hand movement Stroke commonly refers to a light movement of the hand with soft pressure. Synonyms for this sense include pet and caress. Like this sense of stroke, these can be used as either verbs or nouns. strike, blow In the sense of a strong hit with something like a hammer or fist, synonyms of stroke include strike, blow, and hit. These can also be used as both verbs and nouns. sports In swimming, stroke refers to the swimming style, such as backstroke, butterfly, and freestyle. In rowing, a stroke is a pull on the oars. In golf, a stroke is an instance of hitting the ball, or at least the tally of such a hit, as in one-stroke penalty. In the context of other sports, stroke is used more generally to refer to a motion, often one involving contact with a ball. other senses In stroke of genius and masterstroke, stroke can mean something like act, feat, or touch. In stroke of luck, it means something like a sudden happening or occurrence, likened to a stroke of lightning.

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, PSP is caused by damage to nerve cells in areas of the brain that control thinking and body movements.

From Los Angeles Times • May 16, 2026

The results of the Triceps trial are also being closely monitored by the Stroke Association, which is part-funding the research.

From BBC • Feb. 13, 2026

The research will be presented at the American Stroke Association's International Stroke Conference 2026, which will be held in New Orleans from Feb. 4-6, 2026.

From Science Daily • Feb. 1, 2026

Stroke rates were similar for both sexes, and differences in heart failure appeared later in life.

From Science Daily • Jan. 30, 2026

Stroke victims who have lost the ability to speak, for example, are virtuosos, because their infirmity has forced them to become far more sensitive to the information written on people’s faces.

From "Blink" by Malcolm Gladwell

stroke

Frequently Asked Questions

Example Sentences

Vocabulary lists containing stroke

The SAT: Multiple-Meaning Words, List 2

The Smashing Lexicon of Tennis

The New SAT: Multiple-Meaning Words

stroke

Frequently Asked Questions

Example Sentences

Related Words

Vocabulary lists containing stroke

The SAT: Multiple-Meaning Words, List 2

The Smashing Lexicon of Tennis

The New SAT: Multiple-Meaning Words