What term is used to describe a broken bone?

The term used to describe a broken bone is "fracture." A fracture refers specifically to a concrete break in the continuity of the bone, which can occur due to trauma, overuse, or certain medical conditions that weaken bones. This term encompasses various types of breaks, including complete fractures, where the bone is broken all the way through, and partial fractures, where the bone is cracked but not completely separated.

Understanding the context of the other options helps clarify why "fracture" is the correct choice. A sprain involves an injury to a ligament caused by stretching or tearing, which is different from a bone injury. A dislocation occurs when a bone is displaced from its normal joint position, also focusing on the relationship at the joint rather than the bone itself. A stress fracture is a specific type of fracture that results from repetitive or excessive force, rather than a singular break, and is often seen in athletes due to overuse.

Therefore, "fracture" is the broad and appropriate term to describe any broken bone, accurately reflecting the nature of the injury.