unbend

views updated May 14 2018

un·bend / ˌənˈbend/ • v. (past and past part. -bent ) 1. make or become straight from a bent or twisted form or position: [tr.] I had trouble unbending my cramped knees | [intr.] he unbent from the cockpit as she passed. ∎  [intr.] become less reserved, formal, or strict: you could be fun too, you know, if you'd only unbend a little. 2. [tr.] Sailing unfasten (sails) from yards or stays. ∎  cast (a cable) loose. ∎  untie (a rope).

unbend

views updated May 23 2018

unbend relax XIII; straighten XVII; free oneself from restraint XVIII (UN-2). unbending un-yielding, inflexible XVII; remaining erect XVIII (UN-1). unbosom disclose. XVI (UN-2). unbound OE. unbunden; see UN-1. unbounded XVI (UN-1). unbridled XIV (UN-1). unbroken XIII (UN-1). unburden XVI (UN-2).