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DictionarywrenchForceful twisting or pulling
noun / verb

wrench

A forceful twist or pull, or an injury caused by one.

With a sudden wrench, she pulls the stuck drawer open.

Etymology
wrenchOld Englishto twist

The older verb concerns twisting. Wrench names a forceful twist or pull and the bodily injury such movement can cause.

More examples

  • She wrenched her ankle when she slipped on the stairs.
  • He wrenches his arm free of her grip.
  • A painful wrench to his shoulder keeps him from lifting boxes.

Forms

wrench · wrenches · wrenched · wrenching

Similar words

twist
Describes turning or rotating, without necessarily implying violent force.
pull
Emphasizes drawing something toward you, not necessarily twisting it.
sprain
Names a ligament injury caused by twisting or stretching.