Definition

A change or alteration that makes something look or sound different from what it really is, often leading to a false impression or representation.

Example

The distortion in the photograph made it hard to recognize the original image.

Conversation

Have you noticed any distortion in the audio during the concert?

Yes, I felt like the sound was a bit off at times.

It really affected how we enjoyed the music, didn't it?

Definitely, I hope they fix it for the next show.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Distortion → It is formed from "dis-" (meaning apart or away) and "torere" (from Latin, meaning to twist). The word describes the act of twisting something apart or away from its original form.

Memory Tip

Think of something being 'twisted away' ('dis-') from its original shape ('torere'). This helps you remember that distortion means a change or alteration from the original form.

Visually Confused Words