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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

If they bend to the whims of the executive, then their decisions are considered unlawful.

From Slate • Mar. 27, 2026

States follow nationwide standards set by an industry group, but state lawmakers have broad discretion and commissioners can bend state law for individual companies.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 20, 2026

Wind whips hair across your face as you bend over to pick up the perfect bit of seaweed.

From Salon • Mar. 14, 2026

We came to the bend in the road that I recognized.

From "Rump: The (Fairly) True Story of Rumpelstilskin" by Liesl Shurtliff

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