noun
torsion
TOR-shun/ˈtɔːrʃn/
Twisting out of an untwisted alignment.
The metal shaft resists torsion as its ends turn in opposite directions.
Etymology
The pieces name the action of twisting or wringing. In the selected physical sense, that action is the deformation produced when opposing forces turn an object.
In context
Torsion is the physical twisting of the spermatic cord anywhere from 90 to 360°. This twisting acts like a tourniquet.
More examples
- Engineers test the rod under torsion before approving the design.
- Ovarian torsion can cut off blood flow to the ovary.
- A helix has torsion because it curves out of a plane.
Forms
torsion · torsions
torsional adjective — Relating to twisting caused by opposing forces.
Similar words
- twisting
- Describes the turning action without specifying opposing forces.
- contortion
- Usually describes a pronounced distortion, especially of the body.