Synonyms of tortuous

tortuous

adjective

ˈtȯrch-wəs 

as in winding

marked by a long series of irregular curves

a tortuous mountain road marked by numerous hairpin turns

Synonyms & Similar Words

• winding
• curved
• twisted
• curving
• serpentine
• twisting
• sinuous
• crooked
• devious
• bending
• curvy
• windy
• curled
• jagged
• curling
• crazy
• spiral
• coiled
• circuitous
• zigzag
• indirect
• coiling
• uneven
• spiraling
• swirling
• roundabout
• looping
• zigzagging
• circling
• rambling
• wandering
• corkscrew
• meandering
• irregular

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• straight
• linear
• direct
• straightaway

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of tortuous

The tortuous regulatory system that is hostile to new nuclear plants makes the commercial process expensive, slow, and prone to legal challenges. — David Szondy august 31, New Atlas, 1 Sep. 2026

In one of the darkest days in Tour history, British rider Tom Simpson died after collapsing during a tortuous ascent in 1967. — ABC News, 7 Aug. 2026

Marshall’s reelection campaign could draw national attention as Republicans gear up for a potentially tortuous midterm election cycle amid a bitter fight for seats in Congress. — Kacen Bayless, Kansas City Star, 5 Aug. 2026

Neither side seems in the mood to talk; both have said that the memorandum of understanding (MoU) agreed in June after weeks of tortuous negotiation is no longer in effect. — Tim Lister, CNN Money, 20 July 2026

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