Definition of bend

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< bench warrant

bend >

bend ¹    (bnd) KEY  

VERB:
bent   (bnt) KEY  , bend·ing , bends
VERB:
tr.

1. To bring (something) into a state of tension: bend a bow.
2. 1. To cause to assume a curved or angular shape: bend a piece of iron into a horseshoe.
   2. To force to assume a different direction or shape, according to one's own purpose: "Few will have the greatness to bend history itself, but each of us can work to change a small portion of events" (Robert F. Kennedy).
   3. To misrepresent; distort: bend the truth.
   4. To relax or make an exception to: bend a rule to allow more members into the club.
3. To cause to swerve from a straight line; deflect.
4. To render submissive; subdue.
5. To apply (the mind) closely: "The weary naval officer goes to bed at night having bent his brain all day to a scheme of victory" (Jack Beatty).
6. Nautical To fasten: bend a mainsail onto the boom.

VERB:
intr.

1. 1. To deviate from a straight line or position: The lane bends to the right at the bridge.
   2. To assume a curved, crooked, or angular form or direction: The saplings bent in the wind.
2. To incline the body; stoop.
3. To make a concession; yield.
4. To apply oneself closely; concentrate: She bent to her task.

NOUN:

1. 1. The act or fact of bending.
   2. The state of being bent.
2. Something bent: a bend in the road.
3. bends Nautical The thick planks in a ship's side; wales.
4. bends (used with a sing. or pl. verb) Decompression sickness. Used with the.

IDIOMS:
around the bend Slang

Insane; crazy.

bend (one's) elbow Slang

To drink alcoholic beverages.

bend out of shape Slang

To annoy or anger.

bend /lean over backward

To make an effort greater than is required.

bend (someone's) ear Slang

To talk to at length, usually excessively.

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ETYMOLOGY:
Middle English benden, from Old English bendan; see bhendh- in Indo-European roots

SYNONYMS:
bend ¹ , crook ¹ , curve , round ¹

These verbs mean to swerve or cause to swerve from a straight line: bent his knees and knelt; crooked an arm around the package; claws that curve under; rounding the lips to articulate an "o"
Antonym: straighten

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