Contort: meaning, definitions and examples

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contort

[ kənˈtɔːt ]

^{Context #1}

body movement

To twist or bend out of the normal shape or position, especially in an unnatural or unattractive way. It often involves extreme flexibility or strain.

Synonyms

distort, twist, wrench

Examples of usage

He contorted his body to fit through the narrow opening.
The acrobat contorted herself into a pretzel shape.
The pain caused him to contort his face in agony.

^{Context #2}

facial expression

To twist or pull your face into an expression that shows pain, disgust, or some other strong emotion.

Synonyms

frown, grimace, wince

Examples of usage

She contorted her face in horror at the sight.
His contorted expression revealed his inner turmoil.

Translations

Translations of the word "contort" in other languages:

🇵🇹 contorcer

🇮🇳 मरोड़ना

🇩🇪 verzerren

🇮🇩 memutar

🇺🇦 викручувати

🇵🇱 wyginać

🇯🇵 ねじる

🇫🇷 contorsionner

🇪🇸 contorsionar

🇹🇷 bükmek

🇰🇷 비틀다

🇸🇦 يلوي

🇨🇿 zkřivit

🇸🇰 krútiť

🇨🇳 扭曲

🇸🇮 zvijati

🇮🇸 snúa

🇰🇿 бұрау

🇬🇪 გადაბრუნება

🇦🇿 bükmək

🇲🇽 contorsionar

Word origin

The word 'contort' originated from the Latin word 'contortus', which means twisted together. It has been used in English since the 15th century to describe the act of twisting or bending out of shape. Over the years, it has maintained its meaning of contorting the body or face in an unnatural way.