flexion

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noun flex·ion \ ˈflek-shən \

Updated on: 11 Sep 2017

Definition of flexion

1 :the act of flexing or bending

2 :a part bent :bend

3 :inflection 3

4 a :a bending movement around a joint in a limb (such as the knee or elbow) that decreases the angle between the bones of the limb at the joint — compare extension 3b

b :a forward raising of the arm or leg by a movement at the shoulder or hip joint

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Recent Examples of flexion from the Web

The data is fed into a computer to create 3-D images that let STI examine stress on joints and ankle flexion.

— wired staff, WIRED, "Thrashing Out Skatewear," 1 June 2006

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'flexion.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Origin and Etymology of flexion

borrowed from Latin flexiōn-, flexiō "act of bending or curving," from flectere "to cause to go in a different direction, bend, curve" (of uncertain origin) + -tiōn-, -tiō, suffix of verbal action

NEW! Time Traveler

First Known Use: 1615

See Words from the same year

Medical Dictionary

flexion

noun flex·ion

variants: also flection play \ˈflek-shən\

medical Definition of flexion

1 :a bending movement around a joint in a limb (as the knee or elbow) that decreases the angle between the bones of the limb at the joint — compare extension 2

2 :a forward raising of the arm or leg by a movement at the shoulder or hip joint