distortion
Distortion (noun) means a change that twists something out of its normal shape or meaning. Example: “The report was a gross distortion of the facts.”
How to Use Distortion
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA warping of shape, sound, or truth — or, in music, a deliberate fuzzy guitar effect.
Word Forms
distortions plural
Fill the Gap
Can you complete this real example?
The report was a gross _____ of the facts.
Etymology
From Latin distortio, "a twisting," from the same root as distort.
Related Words
Rhymes for distortion
See all rhymes for distortion →Frequently Asked Questions
What does “distortion” mean?
The word “distortion” means a change that twists something out of its normal shape or meaning. In plain terms, a warping of shape, sound, or truth — or, in music, a deliberate fuzzy guitar effect.
How do you pronounce “distortion”?
“Distortion” is pronounced dihs-TAW-shuhn (/dɪsˈtɔːʃən/ in IPA).
How do you use “distortion” in a sentence?
Here is “distortion” used in a sentence: “The report was a gross distortion of the facts.”
What is another word for “distortion”?
Words with a similar meaning to “distortion” include deformation and disfigurement.
What part of speech is “distortion”?
“Distortion” is a noun.
Where does the word “distortion” come from?
The word “distortion” comes from Latin. From Latin distortio, "a twisting," from the same root as distort.
Is “distortion” a common word?
“Distortion” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “distortion” have?
“Distortion” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a change that twists something out of its normal shape or meaning.
What is the difference between distortion and disfigurement?
Distortion refers broadly to any change that twists something out of its normal shape or meaning, including abstract things like facts or sound. Disfigurement specifically refers to physical damage that spoils someone's or something's appearance, making it a narrower, more physical concept.
What does distortion mean in music or audio?
In music, distortion refers to unwanted noise or crackle added to sound, but it can also describe a fuzzy effect deliberately used on electric guitars to create a gritty tone. This deliberate use is a defining feature of genres like rock and metal.
Can distortion refer to twisted facts or information?
Yes, distortion is commonly used to describe a change that twists facts, meaning, or information away from the truth, as in "a distortion of the facts." This sense applies to communication and perception rather than physical or acoustic change.