distort

UK: dɪˈstɔːt | US: dɪˈstɔːrt

Definition

  1. vt. to twist or change something so it is no longer true or accurate

  2. vt. to alter the shape or sound of something unnaturally

Structure
dis <apart>tort <twist>
Etymology

The word "distort" originates from Latin distortus, combining dis- (apart) and torquere (to twist). It originally described physical twisting but evolved metaphorically to describe misrepresentation or alteration of truth. The logic follows the idea of "twisting apart" from the original form, whether in shape or meaning.

Examples

  1. The funhouse mirror distorted her reflection, making her look taller.

  2. Politicians often distort facts to suit their agendas.

  3. The loudspeaker distorted the music at high volumes.

  4. His memory of the event was distorted by time.

  5. Editing software can distort images creatively.