Distort

Definition

Distort refers to the act of twisting or altering the original form, appearance, or meaning of something, often in a way that is misleading or inaccurate. It can also mean to change the shape of something so that it appears unnatural or unclear.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dɪˈstɔːrt/
• Respelling: dih-STORT

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dɪˈstɔːt/
• Respelling: dih-STAWT

The pronunciation of "distort" is similar in both American and British English, with slight differences in vowel sound.

Etymology

The word "distort" comes from the Latin word "distortus," which is the past participle of "distorquere," meaning "to twist apart." It is composed of "dis-" meaning "apart" and "torquere" meaning "to twist." It entered the English language in the early 16th century.

Derivatives

• Distorted (adjective)
• Distorting (adjective)
• Distortion (noun)
• Undistorted (adjective)
• Distortive (adjective)

Synonyms

• Twist
• Misrepresent
• Warp

Antonyms

• Clarify
• Straighten
• Represent accurately

Usage

The term "distort" is frequently used in both formal and informal contexts to describe a change in the original meaning or shape of something. It is often applied in discussions of communication, media, and art, as well as physical alterations. It can carry a negative connotation, particularly when the distortion is done intentionally to deceive or mislead.

Related Terms

• Deform: To change the shape of something, often in a way that makes it look less attractive.
• Misconstrue: To interpret something incorrectly, often changing its intended meaning.
• Skew: To cause something to be misaligned or biased, affecting its true nature or meaning.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To twist or change something so that it no longer resembles its original form: Refers to a physical alteration of shape or structure.
  • Example: "The heat caused the plastic to distort."
• To change or misrepresent information or facts: Used when information is altered in a way that misleads or misrepresents the truth.
  • Example: "The article distorted the politician's views."