trauma

word

/ˈtɹɔmə/
TRAW-muh
/tɹˈɔːmɐ/
TRAW-muh

Definition

Trauma is a very upsetting or harmful experience that has lasting emotional effects. It can also mean a serious physical injury to the body.

Usage & Nuances

Often used for emotional or psychological harm, especially in phrases like 'childhood trauma' or 'emotional trauma'. In medical contexts, it can mean physical injury, as in 'head trauma'. Stronger and more serious than ordinary stress or sadness.

Example Sentences

The accident caused serious trauma to his leg.

basic

She is talking to a doctor about her trauma.

basic

Childhood trauma can affect adult life.

basic

He still carries a lot of trauma from that time in his life.

natural

Loud noises can bring that trauma back.

natural

What happened wasn’t just stressful—it was real trauma.

natural