Which term is commonly used to describe a bruise?

The term that is commonly used to describe a bruise is ecchymosis. Ecchymosis refers to a discoloration of the skin resulting from bleeding underneath, typically appearing as a blue, purple, or black mark on the skin. This occurs when small blood vessels break due to trauma, such as a bump or impact, allowing blood to leak into the surrounding tissues.

In contrast, edema refers to swelling caused by excess fluid accumulation in the body's tissues. Diaphoresis is a medical term for excessive sweating, while emesis means vomiting. None of these terms relate directly to the discoloration associated with bruises, making ecchymosis the most accurate choice.