Definition

To change something so that it is no longer accurate or true, often by twisting or altering its original form.

Example

The funhouse mirrors distort your reflection, making you look taller or shorter.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I heard that movie distorts the real events quite a bit.

Really? I thought it was supposed to be a documentary.

Yeah, but they say it misrepresents the facts to make it more dramatic.

That's too bad; I prefer films that stick to the truth.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Distort → It is formed from "dis-" (meaning apart) and "torquere" (meaning to twist). The word describes the action of twisting something apart from its original form or shape.

Memory Tip

Think of something being 'twisted apart' — 'dis-' means apart, and 'torquere' means to twist.

Visually Confused Words