UNBENDING Synonyms: 215 Similar and Opposite Words

unbending 1 of 2

adjective

ˌən-ˈben-diŋ

Definition of unbending

as in distant

having or showing a lack of friendliness or interest in others the commanding officer's unbending reserve when dealing with subordinates

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in stubborn

sticking to an opinion, purpose, or course of action in spite of reason, arguments, or persuasion the school's new headmaster is reputed to be an unbending disciplinarian

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

unbending

2 of 2

verb

present participle of unbend

as in straightening

to cause to follow a line that is without bends or curls the new highway will largely unbend that twisting path that the old road used to follow

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of unbending

Adjective

In many parts of the developing world, China has come to be seen as a rapacious and unbending creditor, not so different from the Western multinational corporations and lenders that sought to collect on bad debts in decades past. — Michael Bennon, Foreign Affairs, 22 Aug. 2023 The result has been a most uncivil war, not fought over ideology, but over loyalty to the former president; not over public policy or economic solutions, but about who can serve as the most unbending conduit of the Republican base’s profound anger. — Alex Shephard, The New Republic, 18 Feb. 2022

Verb

Without unbending her back, the mother arranges her mouth into a placid line. — Literary Hub, 15 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for unbending

Recent Examples of Synonyms for unbending

Adjective

Its real-time viewing feature can show the home environment and help distant family members feel more connected.

— Lyssanoel Frater, USA Today, 28 Aug. 2026
After some major modifications, it's set to begin its five-year mission peering at new supernovas, distant galaxies and planets orbiting stars outside our solar system.

— Berly McCoy, NPR, 28 Aug. 2026

Definition of distant

Verb

Others in group were skilled at straightening delicate headstones in a way that prevents damage, said former American Legion Auxiliary National President Lisa Williamson.

— Caroline Neal, Louisville Courier Journal, 28 Aug. 2026
Press your hands toward the floor by straightening your elbows.

— Jakob Roze, HEALTH, 19 Aug. 2026

Definition of straightening

Adjective

Loco is known for its casual and rustic atmosphere, barbecue comfort food and cold drinks.

— Ella Gonzales, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 26 Aug. 2026
Summer is typically the most expensive time to pick up a lease, with asking prices falling in colder months, according to historical Apartment List data.

— Mark Dee August 26, Idaho Statesman, 26 Aug. 2026

Definition of cold

Adjective

But the same steadfast pursuit that’s placed the attorney at the center of nearly every call for racial justice in the past decade has earned Crump more than a few detractors.

— Ryan Young, CNN Money, 30 Aug. 2026
In spite of the steadfast testimony of those who went over the antlers as meticulously as anyone could, there are still many detractors.

— Richard P. Smith, Outdoor Life, 27 Aug. 2026

Definition of steadfast

Adjective

Crews may benefit from slightly cooler temperatures in the days ahead, Gass said, and wind conditions are expected to remain fairly calm in both areas.

— Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 30 Aug. 2026
But this is largely a myth, concocted by critics and cool kids to explain away and undercut the popularity of their music.

— Grayson Haver Currin, Pitchfork, 30 Aug. 2026

Definition of cool

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unbend

unbending

unbends

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Style

“Unbending.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/unbending. Accessed 2 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of unbending

adjective

verb

Example Sentences

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