inflection

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   a change in the form of a word to show grammatical features

   The verb 'go' has many inflections, such as 'going' and 'gone'.

2. 2
   noun

   a curve or bend in a line or surface

   The inflection of the roof allowed snow to slide off easily.

3. 3
   noun

   a change in the tone or pitch of the voice

   The inflection in her voice conveyed her surprise.

From Latin in- ('on, upon') + flectere ('to bend'), forming inflectere ('to bend upon; influence'); via Old French and Middle English inflection ('change in form', 14th c.) into Modern English inflection ('change in pitch or grammatical form').

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