recurve

[ ri-kurv ]

verb (used with or without object)

, re·curved, re·curv·ing.

1. to curve or bend back or backward.

recurve

/ rɪˈkɜːv /

verb

1. to curve or bend (something) back or down or (of something) to be so curved or bent

Word History and Origins

Origin of recurve¹

1590–1600; < Latin recurvāre, equivalent to re- re- + curvāre to curve

Word History and Origins

Origin of recurve¹

C16: from Latin recurvāre from re- + curvāre to curve

Example Sentences

The flowers of Evergreen amaryllis feature mint green petals, and Wild Amazone has long, recurved petals in a blend of brick-red, maroon, ivory and pale green.

From Seattle Times

When Dr. Caron stuck several of the newly gained specimens under a high-powered scanning microscope, he spotted a ribbonlike structure studded with recurved teeth on both sides, like the business end of a chain saw.

From New York Times

But I quickly discovered that what I crave from archery is simplicity: the pure feel and atavistic beauty of a single-piece wooden recurve bow, aimed without sights or other accoutrements — instinctively — with both eyes open.

From Los Angeles Times

When a storm does recurve, it often loses strength because of contact with colder water from the Baja California peninsula or the California coastline.

From New York Times

The archery ranking rounds with the compound and recurve bows are being held this morning Tokyo time as well, setting up how the competition will unfold on later days.

From The Guardian

Related Words

• bend
• loop