Language Research

stroke · noun C

/stroʊk/Full view

stroke (ILLNESS)

B2 a sudden problem in your brain that changes the flow of blood and makes you unable to move part of your body

Dictionary example:

She suffered/had a stroke that left her unable to speak.

Learner example:

I'm sure there's a high risk [of] a heart at[t]ack or a stroke if you go on the way you [are going] now. (First Certificate in English; B2; Swedish)

stroke (SWIMMING)

C1 a style of swimming

Dictionary example:

What stroke do you prefer?

Learner example:

Although both may know how to swim, the professional, who was trained in proper strokes and hydrodynamic[s], will definitely turn out the better swimmer. (International English Language Testing System; C1; Tagalog)

a stroke of luck

C2 something good that happens to you by chance

Dictionary example:

He had exactly the part that I needed so that was a stroke of luck.

Learner example:

After a one-hour interview she was asked whether she could start work the very next day. A real stroke of luck. (Certificate of Proficiency in English; C2; French)

stroke (MOVEMENT)

C2 a movement that you make against something with your hand, a pen, brush, etc.

Dictionary example:

a brush stroke

Learner example:

The power of the brush strokes and the intense energy in the image made me sigh with adoration. (Certificate of Proficiency in English; C2; Polish)

stroke · verb T

/stroʊk/

stroke

B2 to gently move your hand over a surface

Dictionary examples:

Stroke the dog if you like, it won't bite.

He stroked his son's hair.

She stroked her chin and shut her eyes before answering.

Learner example:

And do not forget to stroke your cat! (First Certificate in English; B2; Russian)