plural curves
1
: a smooth, rounded line, shape, path, etc.
The dog's tail has a slight curve.
There is a sharp/gentle curve coming up in the road.
2
technical
: a curved line on a graph that shows how something changes or is affected by one or more conditions
the price curve in relation to inflation
the population growth curve
3
: a curving line or shape of the human body and especially of a woman's body
—usually plural
The dress follows the curves of the body.
voluptuous curves
4
baseball
: curveball
The pitcher threw him a curve.
—often used figurativelyLife has thrown him some curves [=thrown him some curveballs] over the years but he's never given up. [=he has had some difficult and unexpected problems in his life]
The reporter threw the actress a curve [=surprised her with a difficult and unexpected question] when he asked about her past drug use.
curves; curved; curving
1
: to form a curve : to turn or change from a straight line, shape, or path to a smooth, rounded one
The tail curves over the dog's back.
The road curves to the left.
The fence curves in toward the side of the house.
The railing curves out near the observation platform.
a curving path
2
: to cause (something) to form a curve
He curved [=bent] the wire slightly.
Cite this Entry
“Curve.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/curve. Accessed 6 Apr. 2026.
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