unbend - Meaning, Image, Examples & Etymology - Learn English Visually

unbend

|un-bend|

/ʌnˈbɛnd/

inflexible

Etymology

Etymology Information

'unbend' originates from Middle English, specifically the prefix 'un-' meaning 'reverse' and the verb 'bend' meaning 'to curve or flex'.

Historical Evolution

'unbend' changed from the Middle English word 'unbenden' and eventually became the modern English word 'unbend'.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to make straight', but over time it evolved to also mean 'to relax or become less formal'.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Verb 1

to make or become straight from a bent or curved position.

He tried to unbend the wire.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Verb 2

to relax or become less formal or strict.

After the meeting, she began to unbend and joke with her colleagues.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Examples

Idioms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:41