hajlik

Hajlik is a Hungarian verb meaning to bend, tilt, or lean. It is used for both literal bending of physical objects (such as a branch, a person’s posture) and for figurative inclination or tendency (for example, trends, opinions, or directions of development). In physical contexts, it can describe something yielding under pressure; in figurative use, it often conveys a tendency toward a goal or direction.

Etymology and related forms: The word originates from the Hungarian root hajl- and the intransitive verb hajlani, meaning to bend or incline. Related forms include the noun hajlás (the act or result of bending), the adjective hajló (bending or inclined), and the past participle hajlott (bent). The verb is typically used without a direct object when describing a natural or inherent bend, and with directional expressions when describing a trend or tendency.

Usage notes: Hajlik commonly pairs with expressions of direction or toward something, often with the preposition felé (toward). It can describe physical posture, such as "A fát a szél hajlik" (The tree bends in the wind), as well as figurative tendencies, such as "A gazdaság a növekedés felé hajlik" (The economy leans toward growth). The sense can convey resilience or pressure-induced deformation, depending on context.

See also: hajlít, hajlás, hajló, hajlott. These terms relate to bending or flexibility and are commonly found in both literal descriptions and figurative language.