How Do You Spell HAIRPIN BEND?

Pronunciation: [hˈe͡əpɪn bˈɛnd] (IPA)

The phrase "hairpin bend" is frequently used to describe a sharp turn in the road. Its spelling can be explained through the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA): /ˈhɛəpɪn bɛnd/. The "ai" in "hairpin" represents the long vowel sound /ɛə/, while the "i" in "bend" represents the short vowel sound /ɛ/. The "p" and "b" sounds are made with the lips and the "n" sound is made with the tongue touching the roof of the mouth. Together, these sounds create the distinct spelling and pronunciation of "hairpin bend."

HAIRPIN BEND Meaning and Definition

1. A hairpin bend refers to a sharp and tight curve in a road or pathway that resembles a hairpin or bobby pin in its shape. In this context, "hairpin" denotes the double U-shape, while "bend" emphasizes the change in direction. Hairpin bends are typically characterized by their acute angle of curvature, usually more than 180 degrees, resulting in a dramatic alteration of the road's course.

   Hairpin bends are commonly found in mountainous or hilly regions where roads need to navigate steep terrains and limited space, requiring a significant change in direction. The emphasis on the term "bend" highlights the fact that hairpin bends are not gradual curves but instead comprise a swift change in direction, requiring careful maneuvering. Consequently, they demand drivers to slow down and exercise caution while negotiating the turn due to restricted visibility and the possibility of losing control.

   Hairpin bends present unique challenges to road users, including increased risks of accidents, especially for those who are unfamiliar with such road conditions. Owing to their sharpness and tightness, hairpin bends often necessitate downshifting gears, reducing speed, and potentially even stopping momentarily in order to navigate them safely. Furthermore, hairpin bends may require a wider turning radius, affecting larger vehicles like trucks and buses, which often necessitate additional space to negotiate them effectively.

   In summary, a hairpin bend represents a sharp and abrupt curve in a road or pathway that takes the form of a U-shape, typically encountered in mountainous areas. These bends demand drivers to exercise caution, reduce speed, and carefully navigate the turn due to their tightness and limited visibility.

Common Misspellings for HAIRPIN BEND

• gairpin bend
• bairpin bend
• nairpin bend
• jairpin bend
• uairpin bend
• yairpin bend
• hzirpin bend
• hsirpin bend
• hwirpin bend
• hqirpin bend
• haurpin bend
• hajrpin bend
• hakrpin bend
• haorpin bend
• ha9rpin bend
• ha8rpin bend
• haiepin bend
• haidpin bend
• haifpin bend

Etymology of HAIRPIN BEND

The term "hairpin bend" originated from the combination of two separate words: "hairpin" and "bend".

The word "hairpin" originated in the late 19th century and originally referred to a long, slender pin with a U-shaped bend used to hold hair in place. It derived its name from the similarity between the shape of the pin and the bend in the road that resembles a hairpin. The U-shaped bend allows the pin to hold the hair securely, just as the bend on a road curve sharply.

The word "bend" refers to a curve or turn in a road. It comes from the Old English word "bendan" meaning "to bend" or "flex". The use of the term "bend" to describe road curves has been in use for centuries.

Plural form of HAIRPIN BEND is HAIRPIN BENDS