To force something straight into a curve or angle by applying pressure. Can also mean to yield or adapt to circumstances.
From Old English 'bendan' meaning 'to confine with a string, fetter.' Related to 'band' and originally implied binding or constraining something into a different shape.
The phrase 'bend over backwards' creates a vivid image of extreme flexibility and effort, though literally attempting this would be quite uncomfortable for most people. Interestingly, materials that can bend without breaking are called 'flexible,' while those that break are 'brittle.'
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