Wrest

Definition

To pull or twist forcefully; to obtain by force or with difficulty. Also means to distort or misrepresent the meaning of something, especially words or intentions.

Example Usage

He tried to wrest control of the company from the current board of directors.

Origin

From Old English wrastan (to twist), related to Old Norse rasta (to twist); possibly cognate with 'wrist.'

Fun Fact

The term appears prominently in biblical and classical literature to describe obtaining something against resistance, as in 'wrest a confession from someone.'

Source: Definition backfill (hailey)

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