Keerdumise

Keerdumise is a term in Estonian that refers to the act or result of twisting, bending, or distortion. It can describe physical deformation of objects under forces, as well as figurative shifts in information, perception, or narrative. The concept is used across different domains to indicate a departure from a straight or expected form.

Etymology and scope: Keerdumise is formed from the verb stem keer- (to turn or twist) with the noun-forming suffix -dumine, which yields a process or result noun. In this sense, keerdumine is related to words such as keerd (twist) and keerduse (a twist). In technical contexts it can be contrasted with rotation (pööramine) or deformation (deformatsioon), clarifying whether the emphasis is on turning, bending, or broader distortion.

Contexts and usage: In engineering and material science, keerdumine describes deformation or warp that occurs when a material is loaded. In textiles and crafts, it may refer to twisting yarns or threads. In literature, media studies, and rhetoric, keerdumine is used to denote a plot twist or a rhetorical turn that changes interpretation or meaning. In psychology or critical theory, the term can describe cognitive distortion or shifts in argumentative direction.

Examples: Materjalil ilmneb keerdumine koormuse mõjul. Loo keerdumine muudab algse kavandi tähendust.

See also: keerdus, deformatsioon, pööramine.