Misshape: meaning, definitions and examples

Use 'misshape' when something is not in its usual or expected shape, often through natural processes, without implying severe damage.

• The wet clay began to misshape as it dried unevenly.
• Sleeping with wet hair can misshape your curls.

Use 'distort' when something is twisted out of its true, original, or natural state, often causing it to lose clarity or accuracy. It is commonly used metaphorically.

• The reflection in the broken mirror was distorted.
• His words were distorted to make him look bad.

Use 'deform' when an object or body is significantly changed in shape due to some external force, typically with the implication of damage or harm.

• The metal bar deformed under the intense heat.
• The accident caused his leg to deform.

Use 'warp' when something is bent or curved out of shape, often due to heat, moisture, or time. It is also used metaphorically to describe a deviation from normality.

• The wooden door warped because of the humidity.
• Time can warp our memories of the past.

Use 'twist' when something is bent or turned into a different shape, especially by applying rotation.

• She twisted the rope tightly around the pole.
• He twisted his ankle while running.

Used often in a physical sense to describe an object that has an unusual or unintended shape.

• The sculpture was misshaped during transportation
• The cookie dough will misshape if not evenly spread

Describes a fault or weakness, and can be used to talk about physical objects, plans, or even persons' characteristics.

• Her argument had a critical flaw
• There was a small flaw in the gemstone that decreased its value

Indicates a shortcoming, imperfection, or flaw, especially in the context of products, machinery, or even human features.

• The new phone model was recalled due to a manufacturing defect
• The product was returned because it had a defect in its design

Highlights something that stands out due to its variance from a regular pattern, often used in legal, financial, or procedural contexts.

• The audit revealed several financial irregularities
• There was an irregularity in the pattern of the fabric

Refers to something that deviates from the norm, often used in medical or scientific contexts.

• The doctor detected an abnormality in the patient's X-ray
• Genetic abnormalities can sometimes lead to serious health conditions