unbend

verb

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un·bend | \ ˌən-ˈbend

unbent\ ˌən-ˈbent

\; unbending

Definition of unbend

transitive verb

1 : to free from flexure : make or allow to become straight unbend a bow

2 : to cause to relax : to set at ease for a time unbend the mind from study

3a : to unfasten from a spar or stay unbend a sail

b : to cast loose : untie unbend a rope

intransitive verb

1 : to relax one's severity, stiffness, or austerity

2 : to cease to be bent : become straight

Synonyms & Antonyms More Example Sentences Learn More About unbend

Synonyms & Antonyms for unbend

Synonyms

Antonyms

Examples of unbend in a Sentence

He was bending and unbending his fingers. His fingers were bending and unbending. He unbent a little at the party.

Recent Examples on the Web Then unbend and flatten the second bobby pin to make one long, straight lock pick. — Kevin Dupzyk And Joseph Truini, Popular Mechanics, 18 Nov. 2020 The Trump administration’s unbending policy toward Iran was supposed to force the foe into submission. — Steve Chapman, chicagotribune.com, 19 June 2019 Sarri was unbending in his desire to implement his style and his philosophy at the club, and no amount of pressure from fans or journalists changed this fact. — SI.com, 5 June 2019 Right-to-try laws indulge the fear that unbending bureaucrats in Washington have kept patients from medical cures with an excess of red tape. — Daniel Engber, Slate Magazine, 25 July 2017 Tilica is unbending in her focus, and uncompromising when accepting what’s possible. — Sam Mellinger, kansascity.com, 12 May 2017

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