DictionaryinflectVarying vocal tone
verb

inflect

To bend away from a straight or uniform course.

The lens inflects the beam of light toward the sensor.

Etymology

The Latin verb means to bend. This sense preserves a change in direction away from a previously straight or regular course.

More examples

  • The path inflects to the left near the gate.
  • He inflected the wire slightly to form a shallow curve.
  • She inflects her voice upward when she asks a question.

Forms

inflect · inflects · inflected · inflecting

inflection noun — A bend or change in direction.

Similar words

bend
The usual everyday word for making something no longer straight.
curve
Emphasizes a smooth, gradual bend rather than any directional change.
deflect
Emphasizes turning something aside from its original course.