flexion

noun

flex·​ion ˈflek-shən How to pronounce flexion (audio)
1
: the act of flexing or bending
2
: a part bent : bend
3
4
a
: a bending movement around a joint in a limb (such as the knee or elbow) that decreases the angle between the bones of the limb at the joint compare extension sense 3b
b
: a forward raising of the arm or leg by a movement at the shoulder or hip joint

Examples of flexion in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Symptoms include weakness in hip flexion and a decreased range of motion. Aubrey Bailey, Verywell Health, 22 July 2025 In the next phase, James’ knee is at the maximum point of flexion. Charlotte Harpur, New York Times, 10 July 2025 During this lowering—known as the eccentric phase—your glutes, along with your hamstrings, get stretched as your hips push back (a motion known as hip flexion). Christa Sgobba, SELF, 4 June 2025 In Azzurra, one finger (capable of flexion and extension movements, or two degrees of freedom) is driven by only one motor. IEEE Spectrum, 18 July 2013 See All Example Sentences for flexion

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Latin flexiōn-, flexiō "act of bending or curving," from flectere "to cause to go in a different direction, bend, curve" (of uncertain origin) + -tiōn-, -tiō, suffix of verbal action

First Known Use

1615, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of flexion was in 1615

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Flexion.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/flexion. Accessed 29 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

flexion

noun
flex·​ion ˈflek-shən How to pronounce flexion (audio)
: a bending movement around a joint (as the knee or elbow) in an arm or leg that lessens the angle between bones of the arm or leg at the joint
also : the resulting state

Medical Definition

flexion

noun
flex·​ion
variants also flection
1
: a bending movement around a joint in a limb (as the knee or elbow) that decreases the angle between the bones of the limb at the joint compare extension sense 2
2
: a forward raising of the arm or leg by a movement at the shoulder or hip joint

More from Merriam-Webster on flexion

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!