plural kinks
1
: a tight bend or curl in something (such as a rope or hose)
—usually + in
There was a kink in the chain.
2
chiefly US
: a pain especially in your neck or back that is caused by tight muscles
—usually + in
I woke up on the bus with a kink [=crick] in my neck.
3
: a small problem or flaw
—usually plural
We just installed a new computer program, and we're still working/ironing out the kinks. [=trying to fix the problems]
4
: a strange or unusual part of someone's personality
Everyone's personality has a few kinks. [=quirks]
Cite this Entry
“Kink.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/kink. Accessed 19 Jun. 2026.
Copy Citation
