TORTUOUS Synonyms: 39 Similar and Opposite Words

tortuous

adjective

ˈtȯrch-wəs

Definition of tortuous

as in winding

marked by a long series of irregular curves a tortuous mountain road marked by numerous hairpin turns

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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of tortuous Brexit’s tortuous complexity weakened governance and led to parliamentary deadlock. — Ishaan Tharoor, New Yorker, 25 June 2026 Slow-moving cars on the Ike, caught in their own tortuous crawl, still often pass our CTA train. — Chicago Tribune, 9 June 2026 So is Ray Wilkins (Shawn Wayans), the former high school football hero who has a tortuous relationship with his sexuality and the closet. — David Fear, Rolling Stone, 5 June 2026 The news in December that the long-standing chairman was leaving, to be replaced by namesake and fellow Fosun executive Nathan Shi, was widely welcomed by fans who held Jeff Shi responsible for the club’s tortuous last few seasons. — Steve Madeley, New York Times, 25 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for tortuous

Recent Examples of Synonyms for tortuous

Adjective

Every floor and room is dedicated to specific watch brands and timepieces, featuring bespoke details like watch-hand door handles and winding-crown faucet handles, all crafted by Florentine artisans.

— Irene S. Levine, Forbes.com, 7 Aug. 2026
As such, the show takes you on a winding journey of France’s influential craftsmanship and its impact on America via archival looks, dazzling objects, and more modern creations.

— Nicole Hoey, Robb Report, 29 May 2026

Definition of winding

Adjective

This pretty T-shirt features a V-neckline, sheer short sleeves, and a curved hem that’s easy to tuck into the waistband of your favorite jeans or pants.

— Mia Huelsbeck, PEOPLE, 7 Aug. 2026
The Shops at North Bridge features retailers occupying a curved arcade that connects Nordstrom to Michigan Avenue.

— Adam Harrington, CBS News, 6 Aug. 2026

Definition of curved

Adjective

The larvae feed on the tree through winter, carving serpentine tunnels that ultimately interfere with the tree’s ability to feed itself.

— Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 Aug. 2026
But, for 2026 anyway, the conference has improved what had been a serpentine system.

— Scott Fowler, Charlotte Observer, 15 July 2026

Definition of serpentine

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tors

tortuous

torture

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“Tortuous.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/tortuous. Accessed 14 Aug. 2026.

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Synonyms of tortuous

adjective

Example Sentences

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