# splint

/ˈspɫɪnt/ (US) · /splˈɪnt/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/splint
Updated: 2026-10-17

## Definition

a stiff support you wear around a broken bone to keep it still while it heals. Doctors often use one before putting on a full cast.

For teachers: a rigid support applied to a fractured or injured limb to restrict movement during healing. Typically formed from wood, metal, or molded plastic and secured with bandaging.

## Examples

- The nurse puts a splint on his broken wrist.
- After the fall, the doctor puts her ankle in a splint to keep it still until the swelling goes down.
- The field medic fashioned a temporary splint from branches and cloth to stabilize the hiker's fractured forearm for the long descent.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.