English Reference

Word

curved

US/ˈkɝvd/

UK/kˈɜːvd/

Definition

adj. having a shape that bends smoothly instead of being straight.

adj. having a rounded or bent shape; deviating from a straight line in a smooth, continuous fashion.

Examples

“The road follows a curved path along the coast.”

“The architect designed the building with a curved glass facade to reflect the surrounding park.”

“The artist used curved lines to create a sense of fluid movement that contrasted sharply with the rigid, geometric background of the canvas.”

Examples

simple

“The road follows a curved path along the coast.”

contextual

“The architect designed the building with a curved glass facade to reflect the surrounding park.”

complex

“The artist used curved lines to create a sense of fluid movement that contrasted sharply with the rigid, geometric background of the canvas.”

Collocations

Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “curved” in context.

Verb

01. follow a curved path

“The hikers followed a curved path that wound around the base of the mountain.”

verb + adj + noun

02. remain curved

“The metal rod will remain curved even after you release the pressure.”

verb + adj

Adjective

03. curved line

“The artist drew a single curved line to represent the horizon.”

adj + noun

04. curved surface

“It is difficult to label a curved surface without creating wrinkles in the paper.”

adj + noun

05. gracefully curved

“The staircase was gracefully curved, leading visitors up to the grand ballroom.”

adv + adj

06. slightly curved

“The new smartphone features a slightly curved screen for a better grip.”

adv + adj

Noun

07. curved blade

“The traditional sword had a long, curved blade designed for swift movements.”

adj + noun

Usage

usually placed before a noun or after a linking verb like 'is' or 'looks'.

Real-World Examples

“Binoculars or a small telescope can provide a closer look as the curved edge of Earth's shadow moves across the lunar surface.”
ScienceDaily 5 Aug 2026
“This time Fernández curved a pass in behind for Semenyo, the right-winger spun the ball over, and Haaland did the rest.”
The Guardian 5 Sept 2026

Synonyms

Antonyms

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
Frequency
Frequent
Level
B2 · Upper IntermediateOxford
Updated

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English Reference