a quick, forceful action:
bold stroke Ending negotiations was seen as a bold stroke by many commentators.
at a (single)/in one stroke By computerizing we could, at a (single)/in one stroke, improve efficiency and reduce costs.

to move a hand, another part of the body, or an object gently over something or someone, usually repeatedly and for pleasure:
Stroke the dog if you want, he won't bite.
She lovingly stroked Chris's face with the tips of her fingers.

a sudden change in the blood supply to a part of the brain, sometimes causing a loss of the ability to move particular parts of the body:
suffer/have a stroke She suffered/had a stroke that left her unable to speak.