torsion Hear it!

torsion definition

tor·sion (tôr′s̸hən)

noun

  1. the process or condition of twisting or being twisted
  2. Mech.
    1. the stress or strain produced in a body, as a rod, wire, or thread, by turning one end along a longitudinal axis while the other end is held firm or twisted in the opposite direction
    2. the torque exerted by a body in reaction to being placed under torsion

Etymology: ME torcion < MFr torsion < LL(Ec) torsio < pp. of L torquere, to twist: see tort

Related Forms:

Webster's New World College Dictionary Copyright © 2005 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

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