noun

concussion

kun-KUSH-un/kənˈkʌʃn/

A violent jolt or impact.

The athlete is dazed by the concussion from a blow to the head.

A medical professional checks a dazed athlete after a head impact, gentle concussion assessment and small brain inset, non-graphic no words.

Etymology

conLatinwith, together; adds emphasis

+cussLatinto shake

+ionLatinaction or result

The shaking root appears in a Latin verb meaning “shake violently.” Its action noun could describe shaking or an earthquake; the medical meaning focuses on injury to the brain from a blow or violent shaking.

In context

Gravitas Documentaries9:58

in a concussion these axons get quickly stretched and that causes injury in a very unique way

Head Games | The Concussion Crisis | FULL DOCUMENTARY

More examples

We felt the concussion of the blast through the floor.
A sudden concussion shook the ship when it struck a rock.
Repeated concussions from the demolition cracked the old plaster.

Forms

concussion · concussions

Similar words

shock: A broader term for a sudden physical disturbance.
jolt: Emphasizes abrupt movement and need not involve great force.
impact: Emphasizes forceful contact rather than the resulting violent shaking.