noun
severe wound; serious wound; gash
Refers to a deep, serious physical injury, often from a blade or weapon. Not used for minor cuts or emotional hurt.
彼は戦いで深手を負った。
He suffered a severe wound in the battle.
深手を負った兵士が運ばれてきた。
A soldier with a serious wound was brought in.
Compound of 深 (fuka, 'deep') + 手 (te, 'hand'), with rendaku voicing to で. Originally referred to a deep wound on the hand, but extended to mean any severe wound.