Twist Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
twist
[twษชst ]
Definitions
to rotate
Twist means to rotate something in a circular motion. It can also refer to turning or bending something out of its normal shape.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| twist |
To cause something to take on a bent or distorted shape, often by rotating it. Also can mean to change or distort the meaning of something.
|
| rotate |
To turn around a center point or axis. Usually used for objects that turn in a circular motion.
|
| spin |
To turn rapidly around an axis. Often used when something is turning quickly.
|
| turn |
To change direction or to cause something to face a different direction. A more general term for making something face a different direction.
|
| bend |
To cause something to change from a straight form to a curved or angled one. Often used for physical objects.
|
Examples of usage
- She twisted the doorknob to open the door.
- The gymnast twisted her body in mid-air.
unexpected change
Twist can also be used to describe an unexpected change or development in a situation.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| twist |
Used when referring to an unexpected change in a story or situation.
|
| turn |
Refers to changing direction or position, can also describe changes in events or situations.
|
| surprise |
Used for an unexpected or unusual event or action, often causing amazement or excitement.
|
| curve |
Typically describes a smooth, rounded line or shape, often in physical contexts like roads or objects.
|
Examples of usage
- The plot of the movie had a surprising twist at the end.
- The sudden twist in the weather caught everyone off guard.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Pop Culture
- The term is often associated with plot twists in movies and books, where a surprising turn of events occurs.
- Popular dance moves, like the 'Twist', became famous in the 1960s and had people dancing in a fun, twisting manner.
- 'Twist' has also been used in numerous songs and lyrics, symbolizing change or unexpected emotions.
Science
- In physics, twisting forces are important in understanding how materials behave under stress.
- Twisting is also a method of energy transfer in some forms of renewable energy, like twisting ropes in wind turbines.
- Twists can be found in nature, such as in the growth patterns of plants and vines which often spiral around supports.
Literature
- Twists often serve as a literary device to surprise readers and keep them engaged with the story.
- Classic novels frequently employ plot twists to heighten drama and add complexity to characters' journeys.
- Authors like Agatha Christie are renowned for their unexpected twists in mystery novels, keeping audiences guessing.
Sports
- In gymnastics and diving, performers use twists to execute complex moves that score high points on routines.
- Twists are crucial in many dance forms, like ballet and hip-hop, where body movements create dynamic visual effects.
- In sports like wrestling, a twist can refer to techniques that involve turning opponents in specific ways.
Origin of 'twist'
Main points about word origin
- The word originates from the Old English 'twistian', which means to twist or turn.
- In Middle English, it was used to describe the action of twisting fibers together to make twine.
- The Latin word 'torere' also influenced the meaning, suggesting an action of turning or rolling.
The word 'twist' originated from the Old English word 'twist' or 'twistian', which meant 'to wind or spin'. It has been used in English since the 12th century. Over time, the word evolved to encompass a variety of meanings related to rotation, turning, bending, and unexpected changes.
See also: intertwist, twisted, twistedly, twister, twisting, twistingly, twists, twisty, untwist.