Meaning & Definition of word "Torsion"

Torsion

/ˈtɔːrʃən/

noun:

  • 1. The act of twisting or the state of being twisted, especially the axial twisting of an object.
    • Example: The engineer discussed the torsion in the metal beam due to the applied forces.
  • 2. A twist or the condition of a structure resulting from applied torque.
    • Example: The torsion experienced by the bridge during high winds raised concerns about its structural integrity.
  • 3. In differential geometry, a measure of the deviation of a curve from being planar.
    • Example: The torsion of the curve indicated how much it twisted in three-dimensional space.

Etymology

Late Middle English: from Latin torsio(n-), from torvere meaning 'to twist'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

torsion balance:

A device used to measure the torsional force.

torsion bar:

A bar that aids in suspension by resisting twisting.

torsion spring:

A spring that exerts a torque when twisted.

Related Words

torque:

A measure of the force that can cause an object to rotate about an axis.

twist:

To turn or wind something into a specific shape or position.

spiral:

A curve that emanates from a point, moving farther away as it revolves around the point.

Slang Meanings of torsion

Meaning: In sports, the term used for twisting movements.

Example Sentence: He really put some torsion into that jump during the competition.