Distorted is an adjective that describes something that is altered or twisted in shape, appearance, or meaning. It implies a departure from its original or natural form, often resulting in a lack of accuracy or clarity.
In terms of physical shape or appearance, when something is distorted, it means that its original structure or proportions have been deformed or skewed. This may occur due to forces, pressures, or manipulations that have caused a change in its original state. For example, a distorted painting has irregular lines or proportions, a distorted face may have features that are disproportionate or distorted, and a distorted reflection in a funhouse mirror appears contorted or twisted.
In a metaphorical sense, when information, facts, or accounts are distorted, it means they have been altered, misrepresented, or perverted. This distortion may result from intentional manipulation, personal bias, or the omission of crucial details. It often leads to a misrepresentation of reality or the spreading of misinformation. For instance, distorted news articles may present biased opinions as objective facts, a distorted history textbook may obscure or twist historical events, and a distorted retelling of an incident may exaggerate or fabricate details.
Overall, the term "distorted" encompasses a deviation from the authentic or original state, whether it refers to physical shapes or appearances, or to the representation of facts, ideas, or information.
