Sinuously Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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sinuously

[หˆsษชnjuษ™sli ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adverb

adverb used to describe movement

In a sinuous manner; with many curves and turns.

Synonyms

curving, twisting, winding.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
sinuously

It is best used to describe a movement that flows smoothly and gracefully, often in a pattern that bends and curves in a complex way. It usually has a poetic or vivid visual connotation.

  • The snake moved sinuously through the grass
  • The dancer's arms moved sinuously, captivating the audience
winding

Perfect for situations where a path or object repeatedly bends and twists, often over a long distance. It generally describes something more physical and tangible.

  • The winding path led us through the forest
  • The winding staircase was narrow and steep
curving

Ideal for indicating something that bends or forms a curve. It is more general in nature and can apply to a wide range of curvy objects or paths.

  • The road started curving up the hill
  • Her smile was curving slowly upward
twisting

Suitable for describing something that turns or spirals with a somewhat forceful or energetic motion. It may imply a certain level of complexity or difficulty.

  • The river was twisting through the mountains
  • Twisting the cap off the bottle required effort

Examples of usage

  • The river flowed sinuously through the valley.
  • The snake moved sinuously across the forest floor.
  • The dancer's body moved sinuously to the rhythm of the music.
Context #2 | Adjective

adjective used to describe shapes or movements

Having many curves and turns; winding.

Synonyms

curving, twisting, winding.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
sinuously

Use this word to describe something that moves in a smooth and curved manner, often in a graceful or flowing way.

  • The snake moved sinuously through the grass
  • The river flowed sinuously across the landscape

Examples of usage

  • The road followed a sinuous path up the mountain.
  • Her sinuous movements captivated the audience.
  • The tree branches formed sinuous patterns against the sky.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Nature

  • Many animals, like snakes and eels, move sinuously to navigate through their environments, showcasing their flexibility.
  • Rivers often flow sinuously, creating a natural path that twists and turns through landscape.

Art and Design

  • In art, a sinuous style can be seen in the works of artists like Gustav Klimt, who uses flowing lines and curves to create movement.
  • Sinuous forms are often used in architecture, illustrated by the designs of Antoni Gaudรญ which mimic natural curves.

Literature

  • Writers often use the term to describe a characterโ€™s movements or the flow of a narrative, suggesting grace or allure.
  • In poetry, sinuous language can evoke emotions that dance and twist, much like the sounds of the words themselves.

Psychology

  • Research shows that nature plays a role in reducing stress, and environments with sinuous paths (like curvy roads) can enhance relaxation.
  • Movement patterns that are sinuous can help in activities like yoga, promoting flexibility and calmness in body and mind.

Origin of 'sinuously'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'sinuosus', meaning 'full of curves, winding', which reflects a lot of bends.
  • In Middle English, it was used similarly to describe lines or movements that are not straight.

The word 'sinuous' originated from the Latin word 'sinuosus', meaning full of windings or turns. It has been used in English to describe winding or curving shapes or movements since the 17th century. The idea of sinuosity is often associated with elegance and gracefulness, as seen in the sinuous movements of a dancer or the winding path of a river.


Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #38,194, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.