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The term that refers to excessive fluid around a joint is synovitis. Synovitis is characterized by inflammation of the synovial membrane, which lines the joint capsule. This inflammation can lead to an increase in synovial fluid production, causing swelling and pain around the affected joint. The condition often occurs in the context of various forms of arthritis or joint injuries, where inflammation is prompted either by disease or trauma.

Understanding the distinction between synovitis and other terms can help clarify why this choice is the most appropriate. For instance, adhesions are bands of scar tissue that can develop between tissues or organs, often as a result of surgery or inflammation, but they do not specifically relate to fluid accumulation. Contusion refers to a bruise, or injury to soft tissue, resulting from direct trauma, and does not involve fluid around a joint specifically. Bursitis involves inflammation of the bursae, fluid-filled sacs that cushion joints, and while it can also lead to swelling, it does not refer directly to the excessive fluid accumulation in the joint space itself. Hence, synovitis is the correct term for this condition.