Synonyms for

Bending

Verb / ˈbendɪŋ / Another word for bending — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

The action of curving or changing direction.

Synonyms & similar words

straighten twist flex deflection crouch unbend bow bend deflexion deform stoop turnaway deflect turn flexing curving twisting contorting crooking arch bow curvet hook loop turning curling coiling winding weaving writhing squiggling wiggling snaking meandering

Synonyms by register

Formal

flexing curving arcing deflecting

Informal

bowing kinking doubling folding

Literary

yielding inclining submitting

Antonyms

straightening stiffening stretching unbending rigidifying firming

Common collocations

  • bending over backwards
  • bending the rules
  • bending the truth
  • bending the knee
  • bending steel
  • bending a branch
  • bending a pipe

Word family

noun bend
verb bend
adjective bent

Usage note

The word 'bending' can refer to physical deformation or to deviating from rules or norms. Be mindful of the context to avoid ambiguity.

Example sentences

  1. He was bending over to pick up his toy.
  2. The trees were bending in the wind.
  3. The road was bending around the mountain.
  4. She was bending the straw into a heart shape.
  5. The metal is bending under the weight of the car.

Quotes

  • I am not a tree, I cannot stand in one place for decades, bending and swaying with the wind. - M.K. Clinton
  • Without the bending and the bowing of the knee, the proud and self-sufficient human heart will never be broken. - A.W. Tozer
  • Bending is not breaking. - Lailah Gifty Akita

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