collision

noun

col·​li·​sion kə-ˈli-zhən How to pronounce collision (audio)
Synonyms of collision
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 adjective
collisionally adverb
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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Investigators said Morabia Siddhi Suresh, 33, of Fremont, California, had been driving in rainy conditions when she was involved in a separate collision, according to Kentucky State Police. Anthony Thompson, USA Today, 14 June 2026 In the video recorded at the Elliot Key Marina shortly after the collision, Pino can be seen telling the investigator that his attention was split immediately before the accident. Ana Maria Soler, CBS News, 13 June 2026 The current number of near-collisions is tough to pin down, as FAA data on drone-aircraft encounters is limited and difficult to verify. Katie Nadworny, Travel + Leisure, 12 June 2026 Bigger spacecraft make bigger collision targets, and more elaborate cooling systems offer yet more ways to fail. Chris Stokel-Walker, Scientific American, 12 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for collision

Word History

Etymology

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

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of collision was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Collision.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/collision. Accessed 16 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

collision

noun
col·​li·​sion kə-ˈlizh-ən How to pronounce collision (audio)
: an act or instance of colliding

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