Turn

Definition

Turn is a verb meaning to move or cause to move around an axis or to change direction. As a noun, it refers to an act of changing direction, a chance to perform, or a change in state or condition.

Parts of Speech

• Verb
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /tɜːrn/
• Respelling: TURN

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /tɜːn/
• Respelling: TURN

Etymology

The word "turn" originates from Old English "tyrnan" or "turnian," derived from Old French "turner" and Latin "tornare," meaning "to turn in a lathe." Its roots are in Latin "tornus," meaning "a lathe or round shape."

Derivatives

• Turner (noun)
• Turning (noun/verb)
• Turnaround (noun)
• Overturn (verb)
• Turnable (adjective)

Synonyms

• Rotate
• Twist
• Change

Antonyms

• Stay
• Remain
• Stillness

Usage

The verb "turn" is used to describe movement, as in "She turned the wheel to the left." The noun "turn" refers to a change in direction or opportunity, as in "It was his turn to speak."

Related Terms

• Rotation: The act of spinning or revolving around an axis.
• Direction: The path or course along which something moves.
• Twist: The action of turning something in a spiral shape.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To move or cause to move around an axis or center: Refers to rotation or circular motion.
  • Example: "The earth turns on its axis."
• To change direction: Refers to altering the course of movement.
  • Example: "She turned left at the corner."
• To change or alter in state or condition: Refers to transformation.
  • Example: "The leaves turn brown in the fall."

Noun

• An act of changing direction or position: Describes physical movement or a shift.
  • Example: "Take the next turn to reach the park."
• A chance to perform or participate: Refers to an opportunity or role in a sequence.
  • Example: "It’s your turn to roll the dice."
• A change in state or condition: Refers to a shift or transformation.
  • Example: "The conversation took a serious turn."