Vocabulary Spotlight

Bent

Part of Speech: Noun, Adjective

Definition: (Noun) A strong inclination or natural talent for something; (Adjective) Sharply curved or angled.

“She has a bent for creative pursuits, especially painting.”

Pronunciation

[bent]

Synonyms, Antonyms & Related Words

Synonyms

Inclination
Talent
Proclivity
Tendency
Aptitude

Antonyms

Disinclination
Aversion
Repulsion
Unwillingness
Incompetence

Related Words

Preference
Bias
Predisposition

Word Origin

“Bent” is from Old English “bendan,” meaning “to curve or turn.” It initially referred to a physical shape and later to inclinations or talents.

Word Family

Noun: Bent – A natural inclination or talent.

Verb: Bend – To curve or turn something.

Adjective: Bent – Sharply curved or inclined.

Mnemonics

Think of a “bent” tree that grows in a particular direction, like a person with a bent for specific talents or inclinations.

Industry-specific Usage

Psychology

In psychology, “bent” may describe an individual’s predisposition toward certain behaviors or interests.

Education

In education, identifying a student’s “bent” can help tailor learning strategies to their natural talents.

Art

In art, someone with a “bent” for creativity may naturally excel in imaginative and artistic tasks.

In Context

“Bent” is often used to describe someone’s natural talents or inclinations. It reflects a person’s innate or developed ability in a particular field or pursuit.

Vocabulary Challenges

1. Which of the following is closest in meaning to “Bent”?

Aversion
Repulsion
Inclination
Incompetence

“Inclination” is correct as “bent” refers to a natural tendency or talent.

2. Fill in the blank: From a young age, he showed a strong _______ for science and exploration.

bent
aversion
repulsion
disinclination

“Bent” is correct as it implies a natural inclination or talent.

3. In which context might “bent” be appropriately used?

Expressing dislike for a subject
Describing a lack of skill
Describing someone’s talent for music
Referring to a straight line

“Describing someone’s talent for music” fits, as “bent” implies a natural inclination or ability.