sinuous

/ˈsɪn.ju.əs/

Group 31Difficulty 2/3

Definition

(adjective)
Having many curves and turns; lithe and supple; complex or intricate
GRE

Example in Context

The river's sinuous path through the valley created a landscape of breathtaking beauty that artists had celebrated for centuries.

Synonyms

windingcurvyserpentine

Etymology

Describes something that curves, reflecting its intricate and winding form.

  • sinuare (Latin) — to curve

Memory Aid

🐍Sounds like “sin-you-us

When you see a snake slithering, you think, 'That’s one Sinuous creature — it’s trying to SIN YOU out of sight!'

Visual Association

🌊A winding river meandering through a lush valley, twisting gracefully like a dancer.

Semantic Clusters

Synonym Groups

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “sinuous” mean on the GRE?

sinuous (adjective) means “Having many curves and turns; lithe and supple; complex or intricate”. The river's sinuous path through the valley created a landscape of breathtaking beauty that artists had celebrated for centuries.

How to remember “sinuous” for the GRE?

Mnemonic: “sinuous” sounds like “sin-you-us”. When you see a snake slithering, you think, 'That’s one Sinuous creature — it’s trying to SIN YOU out of sight!'

What are synonyms for “sinuous”?

Common synonyms: winding, curvy, serpentine.