Sinuous Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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sinuous
[ˈsɪnjuəs ]
Definitions
snake-like
Having many curves and turns; winding in a serpentine or wavy form.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| sinuous |
Used to describe something that has many smooth and graceful curves or bends. Often used to convey elegance or beauty in the shape.
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| winding |
Best for describing paths, roads, or rivers that loop and twist over a distance. It typically emphasizes the length and number of turns.
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| curving |
Appropriate for general descriptions of anything that bends gradually without sharp turns. Often used in more neutral contexts.
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| serpentine |
Used to describe something that has a snake-like quality, often implying complexity or intricacy. Can sometimes carry a negative connotation if it suggests something tricky or devious.
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Examples of usage
- The river followed a sinuous path through the forest.
- Her sinuous movements on the dance floor captivated the audience.
- The snake moved with sinuous grace through the grass.
complex
Intricate and complex, often in a way that is difficult to follow or understand.
Synonyms
convoluted, intricate, twisting.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| sinuous |
Used to describe something with many curves and turns, often with a graceful or flowing appearance. Commonly applied to natural forms like rivers or bodies.
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| intricate |
Used for something that is very detailed and complex, often involving many small parts working together. This term is neutral to positive and can describe designs, mechanisms, or stories.
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| convoluted |
Often used to describe something that is extremely complex and difficult to understand, sometimes excessively so. This term can carry a negative connotation when referring to explanations, plans, or arguments.
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| twisting |
Describes something that moves in a turning or spiraling manner, commonly used for physical movements or paths. It can indicate a more dramatic or forceful change of direction compared to 'sinuous'.
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Examples of usage
- The plot of the movie was sinuous, with unexpected twists and turns.
- Her sinuous reasoning led to a confusing conclusion.
- The sinuous patterns on the fabric were mesmerizing.
fluid motion
Moving in a smooth, flowing manner with grace and elegance.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| sinuous |
This word is best used to describe something that has many curves and bends, often in a way that is smooth and aesthetically pleasing. It can describe physical forms such as roads, rivers, or even body movements.
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| graceful |
This word describes movement that is smooth, beautiful, and elegant. Often used to compliment someone's physical movements or artistic performances.
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| fluid |
Best used to describe movement that is smooth and continuous, like liquid. Can also refer to ideas or situations that are flexible and adaptable.
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| elegant |
Use this word to describe something that is refined, tasteful, and sophisticated. Often used in contexts related to fashion, design, art, and manners.
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Examples of usage
- The ballet dancer's sinuous movements were like poetry in motion.
- The gymnast executed a sinuous routine with precision and skill.
- The silk scarf floated in sinuous waves in the air.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Nature
- Many rivers and streams are considered sinuous due to their meandering paths.
- Certain plants, like the climbing vine, display sinuous growth as they twist around objects to reach sunlight.
- The sine function in mathematics describes smooth, wavy patterns similar to sinuous shapes found in nature.
Art and Design
- Sinuous lines are often used in art to create a sense of movement and fluidity.
- Art Nouveau, a design style from the late 19th and early 20th century, prominently features sinuous, organic forms.
- Famous artists like Gustav Klimt incorporated sinuous patterns into their work, giving depth and elegance.
Physics
- Sinuous objects can affect how waves propagate, like in acoustics where shapes impact sound movements.
- In fluid dynamics, sinuous pathways in a pipe can influence flow patterns and resistance.
- The sinuous flow of air or water can create turbulence, illustrating complex motion in nature.
Psychology
- Research shows that visuals with sinuous shapes can evoke feelings of calm and relaxation in viewers.
- Curvy, sinuous lines in design may attract more attention than sharp, angular shapes due to natural human preferences.
- In human psychology, environments with sinuous pathways can encourage exploration and increase feelings of safety.
Origin of 'sinuous'
Main points about word origin
- The term comes from the Latin word 'sinuosus', which means 'full of bends'.
- Its roots can be traced to 'sinus', meaning 'bay' or 'fold', emphasizing curves.
- The word has been in use in the English language since the 14th century.
The word 'sinuous' has its origins in the late Middle English period, deriving from the Latin word 'sinuosus,' meaning full of windings or turns. The concept of sinuosity has been associated with various natural forms, such as rivers, snakes, and dance movements, highlighting the graceful and winding nature of the word.