Distorted: meaning, definitions and examples

Use when something is altered from its original form or appearance, often in a way that is unclear or misleading.

• The artist created a painting of reality but with distorted shapes and colors.
• Her voice was distorted by the poor phone connection.

Best suited for mild and relatively minor irregularities in shape that can be temporary or not necessarily severe.

• The cookies came out of the oven misshapen but still delicious.
• The hat was misshapen after being stuffed in the suitcase.

Used for describing something that is physically contorted in a spiral or helical shape, often implying a more intentional or forceful action.

• The metal rod was twisted into a spiral shape.
• Her ankle was twisted after she fell on the uneven pavement.

Appropriate in situations where something has an abnormal shape that is typically more permanent and often due to a congenital condition or significant damage.

• The sculpture was deformed after being mishandled during transportation.
• His deformed hand made it difficult for him to write.

Use when something is twisted or out of shape, often in a way that is misleading or hard to recognize.

• The mirror distorted his reflection, making him look much taller
• Facts in the news report were distorted, causing confusion among the audience

Use when someone presents false information or gives a misleading impression, often intentionally. This has a negative connotation.

• The company was accused of misrepresenting its financial status to attract investors
• He felt that the article misrepresented his views on the subject

Use when talking about making small changes or modifications to something.

• She decided to alter her dress for the party
• The software was altered to fix the bugs

Use when something is tilted, has a bias, or is not straight; often used in statistical or data contexts. This can have a negative connotation when implying unfairness or bias.

• The survey results were skewed by the leading questions
• The camera angle skewed the perspective of the photograph