kink
5 synonyms for kink, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A tight twist or bend in something that is normally straight, such as hair, rope, or wire.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use kink
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
work out the kinks
a kink in the plan
a kink in the hose
Etymology
Borrowed into English from Dutch or Low German "kink," originally describing a twist in a rope, likely related to an older Germanic word for a sharp turn or bend.
Full origin of kink →Frequently asked questions
What does “kink” mean?
The word “kink” means a tight twist or bend in something that is normally straight, such as hair, rope, or wire.
How do you pronounce “kink”?
“Kink” is pronounced KIHNGK (/ˈkɪŋk/ in IPA).
How do you use “kink” in a sentence?
Here is “kink” used in a sentence: “She ironed the shirt to smooth out a stubborn kink in the collar.”
What part of speech is “kink”?
“Kink” is a noun.
Where does the word “kink” come from?
The word “kink” comes from Germanic. Borrowed into English from Dutch or Low German "kink," originally describing a twist in a rope, likely related to an older Germanic word for a sharp turn or bend.
How many meanings does “kink” have?
“Kink” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a tight twist or bend in something that is normally straight, such as hair, rope, or wire.
