Definition
To twist or bend out of its normal shape or position, especially in a way that is painful or uncomfortable
Pronunciation
US English
UK English
Part of Speech
Verb
Synonyms
Twist, deform, distort, warp, bend, curve, arch, convulse
Antonyms
Straighten, unbend, align, uncurl
Word Forms
| Part of Speech | Words |
|---|---|
| Noun | contortion, contortionist, contortions, contortionists |
| Verb | contort, contorted, contorts, contorting |
| Adjective | None |
| Adverb | None |
Example Sentences
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The ****contortionist was able to contort her body into a variety of unusual and uncomfortable positions.
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As the excruciating pain surged through his leg, he contorted his face in anguish, his features twisted with the intensity of the torment, desperately searching for any position or movement that would provide even a momentary respite from the relentless agony.
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The tree had been contorted by the wind, and its branches twisted in odd and unnatural directions.
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The sculpture’s abstract form was created by contorting sheets of metal into complex shapes.
Usage
The verb “contort” means to twist or bend something out of its normal shape or position, often in a way that is painful or uncomfortable. It is often used to describe the actions of a person or an object that has been distorted or twisted in some way. The word is derived from the Latin “contorquere”, meaning to twist or wind.
The word “contort” is frequently used in contexts where there is a physical element involved. For example, a person may contort their body in order to perform an unusual or difficult physical feat, like a contortionist in a circus. In other cases, the word may be used to describe the unnatural bending or warping of an object, like a contorted tree that has been shaped by strong winds.
The word “contort” can also be used more figuratively, to describe an emotional or mental state. For example, a person’s face might contort in pain or anger, or they may contort their emotions in order to hide their true feelings. In this sense, the word is often used to describe a situation in which someone is attempting to conceal their true thoughts or feelings.
In summary, “contort” is a verb that means to twist or bend something out of its normal shape or position, often in a way that is painful or uncomfortable. The word is often used to describe physical actions, but can also be used figuratively to describe emotional or mental states. The root of the word, “contorquere”, is Latin and means to twist or wind.