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Definitions

bend

[bend] / bɛnd /
NOUN
curve
Synonyms
STRONG
angle arc bending bow corner crook curvature deflection deviation flection flexure hook lean loop round sag shift tack tilt turn twist yaw zigzag
WEAK
curvation
Antonyms
STRONG
stagnation
WEAK
line
VERB
form or cause a curve
Synonyms
STRONGEST
bow buckle crouch curl flex incline lean stoop tilt twist veer
STRONG
arch camber careen circle contort crimp crinkle crook deflect deform detour double droop genuflect hook incurvate loop pervert round spiral swerve turn verge warp waver wilt wind yaw zigzag
WEAK
angle away angle off
Antonyms
STRONGEST
straighten
STRONG
rise
VERB
persuade; influence
Synonyms
STRONGEST
mold sway yield
STRONG
compel direct shape subdue submit
WEAK
change mind
Antonyms
STRONG
neglect
WEAK
straighten

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

“The Blue Trail” is lyrical science fiction that takes place just around the next bend.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 3, 2026

How much longer will Johnson bend his knee?

From Salon • Mar. 20, 2026

He published it at age 59, when his own adventures in nervous-system regulation allowed him to bend his formerly stiff body backwards into a plow pose.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 19, 2026

They bend towards goal and, with teams allowed to play physically while packing the six-yard box tightly, it is harder for keepers to claim the ball.

From BBC • Mar. 8, 2026

I’d always meant to bend my ear to it.

From "Nory Ryan’s Song" by Patricia Reilly Giff

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.