Which term means 'a cut, tear'?

• A. Laceration
• B. Latent
• C. Lateral
• D. Lethargic

Answer: (A)

Describing a jagged cut or tear in tissue, the term laceration fits the prompt perfectly. It conveys a break in tissue that often has irregular, torn edges, which is typical of injuries from blunt force or tearing rather than a clean, deliberate slice. In contrast, latent means hidden or dormant, lateral refers to the side, and lethargic describes sluggishness—none of these describe a tear or cut in tissue. For comparison, a clean surgical cut is called an incision, which is smooth and planned, highlighting the difference from a laceration.