BEND | Definition and Meaning

Definition of Bend

Bend

Definition/Meaning

(verb)

To change direction or shape, typically by curving or folding.

e.g. The road will bend to the left after the traffic light.

(verb)

to cause something to turn from its usual course, especially to cause it to stray from a straight line;

e.g. This road will bend to pass around the lake, while the other will pass over a bridge across the lake.

(verb)

to lean one's body downward from an upright position, or to move a part of one's body so that it is positioned at an angle;

e.g. He tried to bend down to tie his shoe, but his back was too sore. I can't bend my elbow because I hurt it when I fell down.

(verb)

broadly, to change something/someone in order to suit one's needs or desires, for example to force someone to act in a particular way or to adjust a something for a particular reason;

e.g. She can bend them to do anything because of the seniority of her position. He wanted to bend the guidelines in order to give himself an advantage.

(noun)

a curve or angle in something's shape or path;

e.g. There is something stuck in the bend of the pipe under the sink. We couldn't see what was beyond the bend of the river.