stroke - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
stroke Word Meanings
- a single movement of the arm in swimming
- a gentle touch
- a sudden medical condition affecting the brain
stroke Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
stroke Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/strəʊk/
US
/stroʊk/
stroke Word Etymology
Root: 'stro-' (to rub or touch) + 'ke' (to put). Origin: Old English 'strokan' → Middle English 'stroken' → English. Memory: Imagine a gentle stroke of paint on a canvas or a soothing caress, highlighting the gentle touch inherent in the word; it also connects to a 'stroke' as a sudden impact on one's brain, like a sudden brush with fate.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I set my hand on the table and push forward, letting my arm move in a small stroke. I pull back a moment, adjust the angle, and keep the pace steady. The effort tightens my focus as the motion becomes deliberate rather than automatic. That single stroke feels like a cue for how I reach, balance, and decide what comes next.
Real Context
Stroke is a versatile word in English: it can name a single movement of the arm in swimming, a gentle touch on the skin, or a sudden medical condition affecting the brain called a stroke. As a noun, it describes the motion a swimmer uses to propel forward, a light caress, or the medical event when blood flow to part of the brain is blocked. As a verb, stroke means to slide your hand over someone's hair or arm with care, or to rub something with a soft, even pressure. In phrases, you might speak of a 'stroke of luck' or 'to stroke a canvas'.
Usage Reminders
- - Stroke can be a noun or a verb.
- - A medical stroke is different from a swimming stroke.
- - Remember common collocations: stroke of luck; stroke a canvas.
- - Don’t mix up stroke with strike or hit.
- - Use context clues to choose the right sense.
Common Misconceptions
- Stroke always means a medical event; it can also mean a swimming motion.
- Stroke is not a synonym for strike or hit.
- A stroke of luck is about chance, not a physical stroke.
- To stroke can only mean touching softly, not rubbing harshly.
- Stroke can’t describe a action in art unless it’s a brush stroke.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker: English often treats stroke as a broad polysemous word with clear but distinct senses across sport, touch, art, and medicine; learners must map each sense to its common collocations and avoid overgeneralizing.
Learning Tips
- Make a list of senses and practice with 2 example sentences per sense.
- Learn common collocations: stroke a canvas, stroke of luck, medical stroke.
- Watch out for context clues like touching vs medical symptoms.
- Keep a small glossary of synonyms to avoid mixing meanings.
- Practice speaking with paraphrases to solidify meaning.
- Use visuals: pictures of a swimmer, a brush, and a doctor.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'stroke'?
A.A medical emergency
B.A type of bird
C.A gentle movement made with the hand
D.A musical instrument
Step 2: Usage
How is the word 'stroke' used in a sentence?
A.The painter used broad strokes of color.
B.He drove a stroke of genius.
C.They had a stroke of luck.
D.She stroked the cat's fur.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is similar to 'stroke'?
A.Ignore
B.Hit
C.Pet
D.Watch
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'stroke'?
A.Comfort
B.Caress
C.Punch
D.Criticize
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would you use the word 'stroke'?
A.Petting a dog
B.Cooking a meal
C.Driving a car
D.Reading a book
Related Listening
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