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Winding: meaning, definitions and examples

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winding

 

[ˈwaɪndɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

road

A series of curves or bends in a road, river, path, or other route.

Synonyms

curving, turning, twisting.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
winding

Used to describe a path, road, or river that has many bends and twists. It implies a continuous, generally smooth series of curves.

  • We followed the winding path up the hill
  • The winding river flowed through the valley
curving

Best for describing a single smooth bend or a series of gentle arcs. Often used for roads, lines, or edges that have a gentle, continuous curve.

  • The road was curving gently through the countryside
  • The curving edge of the table gave it a modern look
twisting

Often used for more abrupt and sharp changes in direction, suggesting a more chaotic or irregular pattern. It can have a slightly negative connotation, implying something complex and confusing.

  • The twisting road through the mountains made me feel dizzy
  • His twisting argument left everyone confused
turning

Commonly used to describe a change in direction, typically a more abrupt change rather than a smooth one. Often used for steering vehicles or making decisions.

  • Take the next turning on the right
  • She kept turning the wheel to navigate through the tight streets

Examples of usage

  • The winding road through the mountains offers spectacular views.
  • Be careful driving on the winding roads in the countryside.
Context #2 | Adjective

path

Having a twisting or spiral course.

Synonyms

curving, spiraling, twisting.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
winding

This word again is appropriate for describing something with numerous turns and curves, which can suggest a longer journey or path. Note that the word 'winding' was duplicated in your list.

  • The winding river flowed gently through the valley.
  • They followed the winding path up the hill.
curving

This word is best for describing something that has a gentle bend or arc, often used in design or nature.

  • The curving edges of the modern building were quite elegant.
  • He admired the curving path of the stream.
twisting

Best used for describing something that has abrupt changes in direction, often implying a more chaotic or haphazard shape.

  • The twisting branches of the old tree created eerie shadows.
  • The plot of the movie kept twisting and turning.
spiraling

Use this word for describing something that moves in a continuous curve around a central point, often in an upward or downward direction.

  • The smoke was spiraling up into the sky.
  • They climbed the spiraling staircase to reach the top of the tower.

Examples of usage

  • The winding path led us through the dense forest.
  • She followed the winding river through the valley.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'winding' comes from the Old English 'windan', which means 'to turn' or 'to twist'.
  • In literature, it has been used since the 14th century, describing not only paths but also ideas and stories that twist and turn.
  • Related words such as 'windy' also share roots, connecting the concept with both motion and direction.

Geography

  • Many rivers are described as winding due to their meandering paths, creating natural habitats and varied ecosystems.
  • Winding roads are often built in hilly areas to ensure safety and better handling of elevation changes for vehicles.
  • Winding trails in national parks enhance the beauty of nature, allowing hikers to experience different landscapes.

Literature

  • Winding plots in storytelling keep readers engaged, as they journey through unexpected twists and turns.
  • Famed authors like J.R.R. Tolkien use winding narratives to create depth and complexity in their worlds.
  • The concept of a 'winding road' is often a literary metaphor for life's unpredictable journey.

Psychology

  • Winding thought patterns can indicate complex problem-solving, where ideas develop in non-linear ways.
  • Research shows that people often find winding narratives more memorable than straightforward stories, due to their unique complexity.
  • The human brain prefers 'winding' challenges in puzzles and games, as they stimulate creative thinking and adaptability.

Transportation

  • Many historical paths were winding, formed by the natural movement of people and animals, adapting to the landscape.
  • Modern road design often accommodates winding routes for scenic drives, enhancing the travel experience.
  • In cycling or driving, winding routes can be more enjoyable but require greater attention and skill.

Translations

Translations of the word "winding" in other languages:

🇵🇹 enrolamento

🇮🇳 घुमावदार

🇩🇪 Windung

🇮🇩 berliku

🇺🇦 звивистий

🇵🇱 wijący się

🇯🇵 曲がりくねった (magarikunetta)

🇫🇷 enroulement

🇪🇸 enrollamiento

🇹🇷 dolambaçlı

🇰🇷 굽이진 (gubijin)

🇸🇦 التفاف

🇨🇿 vinutí

🇸🇰 vinutie

🇨🇳 缠绕 (chánrào)

🇸🇮 navijanje

🇮🇸 vindur

🇰🇿 оралу

🇬🇪 ხვეული

🇦🇿 dolama

🇲🇽 enrollamiento

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,528 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.