Bent

adjectiveShop talkShop Slang

A piece of equipment, material, or process that is physically deformed, broken, or improperly executed.

On the shop floor, this describes components that have been warped out of tolerance by excessive force, heat, or misuse. It can also refer to a procedure or rule that has been deliberately bypassed or corrupted to get a job done faster. When a tool or part reaches this state, it usually requires replacement rather than repair.

Heard on the job

That driveshaft is completely bent, so don't even try to put it back in the lathe.

Insider tip

Never use a bent drill bit or rotating tool, as the severe imbalance will destroy the bearings in the machine.