torsion

noun

tor·​sion ˈtȯr-shən 

1

: the twisting or wrenching of a body by the exertion of forces tending to turn one end or part about a longitudinal axis while the other is held fast or turned in the opposite direction

also : the state of being twisted

2

: the twisting of a bodily organ or part on its own axis

3

: the reactive torque that an elastic solid exerts by reason of being under torsion

torsional

ˈtȯr-sh(ə-)nəl 

adjective

torsionally adverb

Examples of torsion in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

When an ovarian cyst grows to be larger than 5 centimeters, there is an elevated risk of experiencing an ovarian torsion, which occurs when the ovary twists on itself, says Forbes. —Caroline C. Boyle, USA Today, 4 June 2025

This injury is typically caused by torsion or traction on the joint. —Staff Report, Hartford Courant, 29 May 2025

Can You Actually Delay Menopause? Also, with a complication called ovarian torsion, the ovary can become twisted around the supporting tissue if a cyst gets large, says Dr. Michael B. Baldonieri, an ob-gyn at the Case Western University School of Medicine. —Stacey Colino, Time, 13 May 2025

One such modification known as Einstein-Cartan theory can avoid black hole singularities altogether by introducing an extra source of repulsive gravitational force caused by torsion. —Paul M. Sutter, Scientific American, 1 Apr. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Late Latin torsion-, torsio torment, alteration of Latin tortio, from torquēre to twist

First Known Use

1543, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing torsion

• torsion bar

Rhymes for torsion

• portion
• abortion
• apportion
• contortion
• distortion
• extortion
• proportion
• disproportion

Kids Definition

torsion

noun

tor·​sion ˈtȯr-shən 

1

: the act or process of turning or twisting

2

: the state of being twisted

Medical Definition

torsion

noun

tor·​sion ˈtȯr-shən 

1

: the twisting of a bodily organ or part on its own axis

intestinal torsion

2

: the twisting or wrenching of a body by the exertion of forces tending to turn one end or part about a longitudinal axis while the other is held fast or turned in the opposite direction

also : the state of being twisted

torsional

ˈtȯr-shnəl, -shən-ᵊl 

adjective