curve

²curve

verb

curvedcurv·ing

Definition of CURVE

intransitive verb

: to have or take a turn, change, or deviation from a straight line or plane surface without sharp breaks or angularity

transitive verb

1

: to cause to curve

2

: to throw a curveball to (a batter)

3

: to grade (as an examination) on a curve

Examples of CURVE

1. The tail curves over the dog's back.
2. The road curves to the left.
3. The fence curves in toward the side of the house.
4. The railing curves out near the observation platform.

Origin of CURVE

Latin curvare, from curvus

First Known Use: 1594

Related to CURVE

Synonyms: arc, arch, bend, bow, crook, fall off, hook, round, sweep, swerve, trend, wheel

Antonyms: straighten

Related Words: circle, coil, curlicue, curl, loop, spiral; turn, twist, wind; deviate, veer

see all synonyms and antonyms

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