bend

bend · verb

imported

Definitions

verb

  1. 1.

    Shape or force something into a curve or angle.

  2. 2.

    Move one's body or part of it into a curved position.

  3. 3.

    Change direction; curve.

  4. 4.

    Yield or submit.

  5. 5.

    A curve or turn in something.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    bend over backwards — Make great effort to help or please.
  • •
    bend the rules — Allow exceptions to rules.
  • •
    bend someone's ear — Talk to someone at length.
  • •
    around the bend — Crazy; insane.
  • •
    the bends — Decompression sickness.

Related words

Antonyms: straighten, unbend
See also: bending, bent, curve, flex
Synonyms: arch, bow, curve, flex

Etymology

From Old English bendan ("to bend a bow, confine"), from Proto-Germanic bandijaną, related to "band" and "bind."