“+ verb
Etymology: Middle English unbenden, from un- (II) + benden to bend
transitive verb
1. : to free from flexure : make or allow to become straight
unbend a bow
2. : to remit from strain or exertion : set at ease for a time : cause to relax
unbend the mind from study
3. obsolete : slacken
4.
a. : to unfasten (as a sail) from a spar or stay
b. : to cast loose or untie (as a rope)
intransitive verb
1.
a. : to relax one's severity, stiffness, or austerity
she unbent a little, losing something of her marble acquiescence — A.J.Cronin
b. : to give oneself wholeheartedly to affability, mirth, or amusement
an office party where everyone unbends and regrets it — Frederick Laws
2. : to cease to be bent : become straight or relaxed