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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.

At 42, she had a heart attack and a stroke, then four open heart surgeries.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 9, 2026

Latham's rash drive at Atkinson to the third ball of the innings was an awful stroke.

From BBC • Jun. 5, 2026

R&B singer Peabo Bryson, well known for his duets from beloved Disney classics “Aladdin” and “Beauty and the Beast,” suffered a stroke over the weekend.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 2, 2026

“In Japanese samurai movies, it’s one stroke kills,” RZA said.

From Salon • May 31, 2026

In November 1881, Henry Jencken suffered a stroke and died.

From "American Spirits" by Barb Rosenstock

Vocabulary lists containing stroke

The SAT: Multiple-Meaning Words, List 2

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

The Smashing Lexicon of Tennis

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

The New SAT: Multiple-Meaning Words

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!

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