Distortion.

Distortion. When any body is subjected to the action of a deforming force, or stress, the corresponding deformation, or strain, is sometimes termed a distortion. In this limited sense the term is frequently used in treatises on elasticity. The definition would almost indicate some relation between a distortion and the force causing it. Such relation was first given by Hooke (1635-1703) in his law which bears his name: Distortion is proportional to the distorting force. Thus, for example, if a plank of wood supported at each end be deflected at the middle through a certain space by the placing there of a given weight, twice the weight will give twice the deflection, and so on. See ELASTICITY.