road rash

Definition

The painful skin abrasions resulting from sliding across pavement during a cycling crash. Nature's reminder that Lycra provides minimal protection against concrete.

Example Usage

I got road rash down my entire left side and now showering feels like I'm being attacked by angry bees.

Origin

Cycling slang from the mid-20th century, combining 'road' with the appearance of abraded skin.

Fun Fact

Experienced cyclists often refuse to let medical professionals clean their road rash, preferring to scrub it themselves with a brush—a painful badge of honor.

Source: Cycling community terminology

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