bending (A2)

verb

Pronunciation: /ˈbɛndɪŋ/

Definition

Changing shape or becoming curved by pressing or pulling on it, or making something do this.

Examples

• The tree branches were bending under the weight of the snow.

• He was bending over to tie his shoelaces.

• The baker was bending the dough into a pretzel shape.

How to Use bending

bend down (phrasal verb)

To lower your body by bending your knees or waist. — "He had to bend down to pick up the coin."

bend over (phrasal verb)

To lean forward and downward from the waist. — "The children were bending over to look under the door."

bend to (prepositional phrase)

To yield or submit to someone or something. — "She refused to bend to his will."

bend something into (collocation)

To shape something into a particular form. — "He bent the wire into a heart shape."

Synonyms of bending

Words with a similar meaning to bending:

• flexing
• curving
• warping
• contorting

Antonyms of bending

Words with the opposite meaning to bending:

• straightening
• stiffening

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