collision

noun

col·​li·​sion kə-ˈli-zhən 

1

: an act or instance of colliding : clash

2

: an encounter between particles (such as atoms or molecules) resulting in exchange or transformation of energy

collisional

kə-ˈli-zh(ə-)nəl 

adjective

collisionally adverb

Synonyms of collision

• crash
• shock
• impact
• jolt
• thump
• slam
• concussion
• bump

Choose the Right Synonym for collision

impact, collision, shock, concussion mean a forceful, even violent contact between two or more things.

impact may be used to imply contact between two things, at least one of which is impelled toward the other.

the glass shattered on impact with the floor

collision implies the coming together of two or more things with such force that both or all are damaged or their progress is severely impeded.

the collision damaged the vehicle

shock often denotes the effect produced by a collision and carries the suggestion of something that strikes or hits with force.

the shock of falling rocks

concussion when not in technical use, often suggests the shattering, disrupting, or weakening effects of a collision, explosion, or blow.

bystanders felt the concussion of the blast

Examples of collision in a Sentence

The car was destroyed in the collision.

the collision of two opposing philosophies regarding the rearing of children

Recent Examples on the Web

To sail through the strait without being detected by Iran, many ships are turning off their Automatic Identification Systems, which are navigational beacons that broadcast their positions to avoid collisions. —Jason Ma, Fortune, 30 May 2026

This is no coincidence; galactic mergers are more likely at the cluster’s gravitational center, and astronomers think the chaos of such collisions helps give ellipticals their characteristic spheroidal shape. —Phil Plait, Scientific American, 29 May 2026

The Idaho Transportation Department plans to restripe a section of Interstate 84 between Meridian and Nampa, in the days after work-zone lane markings caused confusion among drivers and at least one near collision. —Rose Evans may 29, Idaho Statesman, 29 May 2026

The family of a 19-year-old man killed in a head-on collision in Dakota County earlier this week has created a GoFundMe account to help his parents with medical and funeral expenses. —Kristi Miller, Twin Cities, 29 May 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Latin collision-, collisio, from collidere

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing collision

• anti-collision
• collision course
• head-on collision
• inelastic collision
• on a collision course

Rhymes for collision

• abscission
• decision
• derision
• division
• elision
• envision
• excision
• incision
• misprision
• precision
• prevision
• provision

Kids Definition

collision

noun

col·​li·​sion kə-ˈlizh-ən 

: an act or instance of colliding