unbend
UK: ʌnˈbɛnd | US: ʌnˈbɛnd
vt. 1. To straighten something that is bent or curved.
vi. 2. To relax or become less formal in demeanor.
vt. 3. (Nautical) To release tension from a rope or sail.
The word unbend combines the negating prefix un- with the verb bend, creating a literal sense of reversing a curve or flex. Over time, it gained figurative meanings, such as relaxing rigid behavior—akin to "straightening" one's attitude. The nautical usage reflects loosening tension, extending the core idea of reversing tightness.
She carefully unbent the paperclip to use it as a hook.
After the meeting, he unbent and joked with his colleagues.
The sailor unbent the rope to adjust the sail.
It’s hard to unbend old habits without conscious effort.
The willow branch unbent slightly when the weight was removed.