unbend

verb

un·​bend ˌən-ˈbend How to pronounce unbend (audio)
unbent ˌən-ˈbent How to pronounce unbend (audio) ; unbending
Synonyms of unbendnext

transitive verb

1
: to free from flexure : make or allow to become straight
unbend a bow
2
: to cause to relax : to set at ease for a time
unbend the mind from study
3
a
: to unfasten from a spar or stay
unbend a sail
b
: to cast loose : untie
unbend a rope

intransitive verb

1
: to relax one's severity, stiffness, or austerity
2
: to cease to be bent : become straight

Synonyms

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Examples of unbend in a Sentence

He was bending and unbending his fingers. His fingers were bending and unbending. He unbent a little at the party.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The paper watch sensors survived preliminary stress testing that involved bending and unbending for 300 cycles. — IEEE Spectrum, 9 Jan. 2017 Ceaseless in his service, unbending in his dignity, and revered for his commitment to our common humanity. — Natalie Oganesyan, Deadline, 29 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of unbend was in the 13th century

Rhymes for unbend

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Browse Nearby Words

unbemused
unbend
unbendable
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Unbend.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unbend. Accessed 17 Apr. 2025.

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Kids Definition

unbend

verb
un·​bend ˌən-ˈbend How to pronounce unbend (audio)
unbent -ˈbent How to pronounce unbend (audio) ; unbending
1
: to free from being bent : make or become straight
2
: relax sense 3

More from Merriam-Webster on unbend

Nglish: Translation of unbend for Spanish Speakers

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