what is a sprain
sprain. n. 1. A painful wrenching or laceration of the ligaments of a joint. 2.The condition resulting from a sprain. tr.v. sprained, sprainÂ·ing, sprains. To cause a sprain to (a joint or ligament).. A painful wrenching or laceration of the ligaments of a joint. 2. The condition resulting from a sprain.