wrench Hear it!

wrench definition

wrench (renc̸h)

noun

  1. a sudden, sharp twist or pull
  2. an injury caused by a twist or jerk, as to the back, a joint, etc.
  3. a sudden feeling of grief, anguish, etc., as at parting with someone
  4. any of a number of tools used for holding and turning nuts, bolts, pipes, etc.
  5. a false or strained interpretation of an original meaning

Etymology: ME < OE wrenc, a trick, deceit; akin to Ger ränke, a bend, twist < IE *wreng- < base *wer-, to twist, turn > worm

transitive verb

  1. to twist, pull, or jerk suddenly and violently
  2. to injure (a part of the body) with a twist or wrench
  3. to distort, strain, or give a false interpretation of (a meaning, statement, etc.)

intransitive verb

to pull or tug (at something) with a wrenching movement

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