Langimage
English

distort

|dis/tort|

B2

🇺🇸

/dɪˈstɔrt/

🇬🇧

/dɪˈstɔːt/

twist or misrepresent

Etymology
Etymology Information

'distort' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'distortus,' where 'dis-' meant 'apart' and 'torquere' meant 'to twist.'

Historical Evolution

'distortus' transformed into the Old French word 'distorcer,' and eventually became the modern English word 'distort' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to twist apart,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to alter or misrepresent.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Verb 1

to twist or alter something out of its true, natural, or original state.

The funhouse mirrors distort your reflection.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Verb 2

to give a misleading or false account or impression of something.

The media can sometimes distort the facts.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35