unbending



From The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:


Unbend \Un*bend"\ ([u^]n*b[e^]nd"), v. t. [imp. & p. p. Unbent
   ([u^]n*b[e^]nt"); p. pr. & vb. n. Unbending.] [1st pref.
   un- + bend.]
   1. To free from flexure; to make, or allow to become,
      straight; to loosen; as, to unbend a bow.
      [1913 Webster]

   2. A remit from a strain or from exertion; to set at ease for
      a time; to relax; as, to unbend the mind from study or
      care.
      [1913 Webster]

            You do unbend your noble strength.    --Shak.
      [1913 Webster]

   3. (Naut.)
      (a) To unfasten, as sails, from the spars or stays to
          which they are attached for use.
      (b) To cast loose or untie, as a rope.
          [1913 Webster]
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From The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:


Unbending \Un*bend"ing\, a. [In senses 1, 2, and 3, pref. un-
   not + bending; in sense 4, properly p. pr. of unbend.]
   1. Not bending; not suffering flexure; not yielding to
      pressure; stiff; -- applied to material things.
      [1913 Webster]

            Flies o'er the unbending corn, and skims along the
            main.                                 --Pope.
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   2. Unyielding in will; not subject to persuasion or
      influence; inflexible; resolute; -- applied to persons.
      [1913 Webster]

   3. Unyielding in nature; unchangeable; fixed; -- applied to
      abstract ideas; as, unbending truths.
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   4. Devoted to relaxation or amusement. [R.]
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            It may entertain your lordships at an unbending
            hour.                                 --Rowe.
      [1913 Webster] -- Un*bend"ing*ly, adv. --
      Un*bend"ing*ness, n.
      [1913 Webster]














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