Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Having a shape that is not straight but bends smoothly: Describes an object, line, or surface that deviates from a straight line in a continuous, smooth arc or bend.
   • Characterized by a curve: Marked by a rounded, arching, or bending form.

Usage

The adjective "curved" is used to describe the physical shape of objects. It is the opposite of "straight" or "angular." It can describe a single, gentle bend or a series of smooth bends. - It is often used before a noun (e.g., a curved road) or after a linking verb like "be" or "look" (e.g., The blade is curved). - It describes a permanent or inherent shape, not a temporary action of bending.

Examples

• Descriptive Use:

  • The artist drew a curved line on the canvas.
  • The path follows the curved edge of the lake.
  • Many ancient swords had a slightly curved blade.

• With Linking Verbs:

  • The handle of the umbrella is curved.
  • The old tree's branches were beautifully curved.

Advanced Usage

• "gently curved": Having a very slight, soft bend.
  • The driveway was gently curved, leading up to the house.
• "sharply curved": Having a tight or pronounced bend.
  • The sharply curved hook made it difficult to remove.

Variants and Related Words

• Curve (noun): A line or surface that bends continuously.
  • The car took the curve in the road too fast.
• Curve (verb): To form or move in a curve; to bend.
  • The road curves to the left ahead.
• Curvy (adjective, informal): Having many curves; often used to describe a road or a person's figure.
  • It's a curvy mountain road.
• Curvature (noun): The degree to which something is curved.
  • The curvature of the lens must be precise.

Synonyms

• Bent: Folded or angled, sometimes implying a sharper angle.
• Arched: Curved like an arch, often overhead.
• Rounded: Having a smooth, circular curve.
• Sinuous: Having many smooth turns and curves (like a snake).

Antonyms

• Straight: Extending uniformly in one direction without a curve.
• Linear: Arranged in or extending along a straight line.
• Angular: Having sharp corners or angles.

Common Collocations

• Curved surface: A surface that is not flat.
• Curved line: A non-straight line in geometry or art.
• Curved shape: The general form of an object that is curved.
• Curved spine: A medical term for an abnormal curvature of the back.

Adjective

1. having or marked by a curve or smoothly rounded bend
   • the curved tusks of a walrus
   • his curved lips suggested a smile but his eyes were hard