Meaning & Definition of word "Bending"

Bending

/ˈbɛn.dɪŋ/

noun:

  • 1. The act of bending.
    • Example: His bending of the rules led to unexpected consequences.
  • 2. A curve in something that has been bent.
    • Example: There was a noticeable bending in the road ahead.

verb:

  • 1. To shape or force (something straight) into a curve or angle.
    • Example: She was bending the wire into the shape of a heart.
  • 2. To incline or curve away from a straight line.
    • Example: The tree branches were bending under the weight of the snow.
  • 3. To submit to pressure or influence.
    • Example: He refused to bend to the demands of his critics.

Etymology

Old English 'bindan', meaning to bind or tie, plus the present participle ending 'ing'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

bending over backwards:

Making a great effort to accommodate or please someone.

bending the rules:

Changing or ignoring rules to achieve a desired outcome.

bending someone's ear:

Talking to someone at length, especially to persuade them.

Related Words

bend:

To curve something or to cause it to change direction.

flex:

To bend something, typically without breaking it.

curve:

A smoothly flowing, continuous line or path that is not straight.

Slang Meanings of bending

Meaning: To bend someone out of shape

Example Sentence: He was really bent out of shape over the criticism.

Meaning: Bending the truth

Example Sentence: She wasn’t lying, just bending the truth a little.