Pronunciation: [plˈɒt twˈɪst] (IPA) 
The spelling of "plot twist" follows the standard English rules of orthography. The first part, "plot," is pronounced as /plɒt/, with the "o" sound as in "lot." The second part, "twist," is pronounced as /twɪst/, with the "i" sound as in "big." When pronounced together, the stress is on the second syllable, "twist." "Plot twist" refers to a surprise development in a storyline that changes the audience's understanding of the plot.
A "plot twist" refers to a narrative device utilized in storytelling, especially in literature, film, and television, where the storyline takes an unexpected and surprising turn, deviating from the anticipated or conventional plot structure and introducing a significant change or revelation to the plot, characters, or events. It is a strategic and deliberate shift in the direction of the narrative, often employed to create suspense, shock, or added complexity to the story.
A plot twist can occur at any point in the storyline, typically during a crucial moment like the climax or denouement, catching the audience or readers off guard and challenging their assumptions or expectations. It can involve a sudden revelation about a character's true identity, motive, or past, an unexpected event or occurrence, or a complete subversion of the established storyline or genre conventions.
Plot twists serve to keep the audience engaged, as they are unprepared for the unexpected developments, and can evoke a range of emotions, such as surprise, disbelief, excitement, or even confusion. They can also serve as a tool for writers and filmmakers to add depth, unpredictability, and intellectual stimulation to their creations, making the story more memorable and impactful.
Overall, a plot twist is a narrative technique that acts as a catalyst, altering the course of the story and enhancing its intrigue, making it a vital component in captivating and memorable storytelling.
The word "plot twist" originated from the combination of two individual words: "plot" and "twist".
The term "plot" has its roots in Middle English and Old French, derived from the Latin word "plottus" or "complotus", meaning a plan or a scheme. Over time, it evolved to refer to the series of events that make up a story or narrative.
On the other hand, "twist" comes from Middle English and Old English, related to the Old Norse word "twistr", meaning to turn or to wind. It evolved to connote unexpected changes or deviations from the expected course of events.
The joining of these two words, "plot" and "twist", in the context of storytelling, refers to a sudden turn of events or an unexpected development that diverges from the anticipated storyline. It has become a commonly used term to describe surprising and captivating changes within a narrative.
