What does kink mean?
A kink is a bend, twist, or irregularity in something that is expected to be straight or smooth. The word can describe a physical feature, such as a kink in a cable, road, or piece of fabric, and it can also refer to a distinctive personal preference, habit, or eccentricity. In the physical sense, it is precise and neutral, often suggesting a sudden or noticeable change in direction. In the figurative sense, it may describe someone who has an unusual taste, belief, or way of behaving; this use can be humorous, informal, or mildly judgmental depending on context. As a verb, kink means to bend or twist sharply. The word is useful because it captures both a visible physical irregularity and, by extension, something that departs from the usual or expected pattern.
A sharp bend, twist, or irregularity in something that is normally straight or smooth; also, an unusual personal preference, habit, or characteristic.
"The photographer adjusted the camera to compensate for a kink in the path."
The physical sense is neutral. The figurative sense is often informal and can be humorous or slightly disparaging.
To bend, twist, or form a sharp irregularity; also, to move or change direction with a sudden sharp turn.
"The hose kinked as he tried to straighten it."
Common in descriptions of cables, wires, pipes, roads, and similar objects, as well as movement.
The plural is used for individual bends or irregularities and for separate unusual preferences or characteristics.
"She worked out her kinks before starting the unfamiliar sport."
From a harmless twist in a cable to an unusual personal preference, a kink can describe anything that interrupts the straight and expected.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does kink come from?
The word appears in English by the early nineteenth century in senses connected with bending, twisting, and irregular movement. Its precise origin is uncertain, and it is related to older and dialect forms meaning a bend or twist, but modern usage has broadened beyond the physical sense. The figurative sense, referring to an unusual personal characteristic or preference, developed later from the idea of something irregular or distinctive.
Related word forms
How kink is actually used
In its physical sense, the word is neutral and technical. In the sense of an unusual personal preference or characteristic, it may sound informal, humorous, or mildly disparaging, and should be used carefully when describing someone's tastes or behavior.