CONTORTION Meaning and
Definition
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Contortion is a noun that refers to the act or process of twisting, bending, or contorting the body or a specific body part into unnatural or unusual positions. It involves the deliberate manipulation or flexibility of muscles and joints beyond their normal limits to achieve extreme or unusual body configurations.
In the field of physical performance arts, contortion is often associated with skilled individuals known as contortionists or acrobats who possess exceptional flexibility and body control. These performers are capable of assuming remarkably intricate and visually striking poses that defy the limitations of typical human movement. Contortion acts can be seen in various circus performances, dance styles, and stage productions, where they serve to captivate and entertain audiences with their remarkable dexterity and agility.
Beyond the realm of performing arts, contortion can also be used to describe any excessive or abnormal bending or twisting, whether referring to objects or concepts. For instance, one might speak of the contortions of a pretzel-shaped wire or describe the contortions of a convoluted argument. In a figurative sense, the word conveys the idea of distortion or abnormality, highlighting the incongruity or complexity in the manner something is being presented or arranged.
Overall, contortion encompasses the deliberate manipulation of the body or objects to achieve flexibility and unusual shapes, whether it be in the realm of physical performance or a metaphorical representation of abnormality or complexity.
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A twist or twisting; a wresting; a wry motion; a wresting or twisting of a part of the body out of its natural place, as the muscles of the face or a limb.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for CONTORTION
Etymology of CONTORTION
The word "contortion" originated from the Latin term "contortus", which is the past participle of the verb "contorquere". "Contorquere" is derived from the prefix "con-" (meaning "together" or "with") and the verb "torquere" (meaning "to twist"). Therefore, "contorquere" can be translated as "to twist together". Over time, the term "contortus" evolved into "contortion" in English, referring to the act of twisting or bending one's body into unusual or extreme positions.
Similar spelling words for CONTORTION
- conterminous,
- contraception,
- contractile,
- contraction,
- contour,
- contrive,
- condition,
- contrivance,
- contort,
- contraption,
- controvert,
- contrail,
- contrarious,
- contribution,
- contorted,
- contrite,
- contrition,
- contrastive,
- contributing,
- contrived,
- contortionist,
- gunter's chain,
- contrastingly,
- connatural,
- kondrashin,
- contrasting,
- contralto,
- contriteness,
- countertop,
- contrast,
- contracting,
- contribute,
- contriver,
- countertenor,
- contractility,
- contritely,
- contract,
- contradiction.
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