As a verb, to twist means to turn or bend something around itself or another object. As a noun, a twist can be a spiral shape, a sudden change in events, or a different version of something.
From Old English "twist" meaning a rope or cord, from a root meaning "two" or "double," referring to strands being wound together. It developed into the idea of spiraling or turning.
A twist is literally about doubling—two strands winding around each other—so it’s perfect for describing stories that suddenly change direction. That’s why we talk about a "plot twist" or a "twist of fate" when reality seems to curl into a new shape.
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