Definition of BENT (original) (raw)

1

: changed by bending out of an originally straight or even condition

standing with knees slightly bent

2

: strongly inclined : determined —usually used with on

was bent on going

3

slang

a

: different from the normal or usual

… she was so bent that she's probably a woman who ought to be locked up somewhere …—Robert Redford

c

chiefly US : intoxicated, drunk

Like to get bent? This hangover beater will help you get back on track.—VIBE

Examples of bent in a Sentence

Adjective

With your knees slightly bent, bend forward and touch your toes. the drug dealer knew which of the cops were bent Noun (2)

the perfect gift for a person of a literary bent having a decided bent for languages, he picked up Italian in no time

Recent Examples on the Web

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Researchers are trying to dispel inaccurate information, but regional newspapers seem bent on perpetuating fear. —IEEE Spectrum, 7 May 2026 The Infinite Tangle Metal Sculptural Fidget is built from 18 interlocking metal pieces bent at 90-degree angles, taking inspiration from the Tibetan infinite knot. —Samantha Agate, Sacbee.com, 6 May 2026

Turner, a colorful figure with a Southern drawl and rail-thin mustache, had pronounced views himself, often (though not exclusively) of a liberal bent. —David Folkenflik, NPR, 6 May 2026 The takeover — which expands the pizzeria’s historic presence in Naples’ Rione Sanità district and its second location opened in Capri in 2024 — will also come with a charity bent. —Sandra Salibian, Footwear News, 4 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for bent

Word History

Etymology

Adjective

Middle English, from past participle of benden to bend

Noun (1)

irregular from bend entry 1

Noun (2)

Middle English, grassy place, bent grass, from Old English beonot-; akin to Old High German binuz rush

First Known Use

Adjective

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Noun (1)

1587, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Noun (2)

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler

The first known use of bent was in the 14th century