ALL meanings of the-bends
the-bend
T t - verb with object the-bends to force (an object, especially a long or thin one) from a straight form into a curved or angular one, or from a curved or angular form into some different form: to bend an iron rod into a hoop. 1
- verb with object the-bends to direct or turn in a particular direction: to bend one's energies to the task. 1
- verb with object the-bends to cause to submit or yield: to bend someone to one's will. 1
- verb with object the-bends to modify or relax (restrictions, regulations, etc.) temporarily or in certain circumstances: to bend the rules. 1
- verb with object the-bends to incline mentally (usually followed by to or toward): bending his thoughts back toward his childhood. 1
- verb with object the-bends to pull back the string of (a bow or the like) in preparation for shooting. 1
- verb with object the-bends Nautical. to fasten. 1
- verb with object the-bends Archaic. to strain or brace tensely (often followed by up). 1
- verb without object the-bends to become curved, crooked, or bent: a bow that bends easily. 1
- verb without object the-bends to assume a bent posture; stoop (often followed by over): to bend as one walks; to bend over and pick up something. 1
- verb without object the-bends to turn or incline in a particular direction; be directed: The road bent toward the south. 1
- verb without object the-bends to yield or submit; give in. 1
- verb without object the-bends to bow in submission or reverence: bending to one's monarch. 1
- verb without object the-bends to direct one's energies: We bent to our work as the bell sounded. 1
- noun the-bends an obstruction of the circulatory system caused by air, as may arise during surgery. 1
- noun the-bends Also called the bends, caisson disease, decompression sickness. an acute condition caused by a rapid substantial decrease in atmospheric pressure, as in high-altitude flying and coming up from deep-sea diving, characterized by the formation of nitrogen bubbles in the blood, severe pain in the lungs and joints, and neurological impairment. 1
- idioms the-bends around / round the bend, Slang. insane; crazy: These interruptions will send me round the bend! 1
- idioms the-bends bend / lean / fall over backward, to exert oneself to the utmost; make a serious effort: They bent over backward to make sure their guests were comfortable. 1