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Enmesh Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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enmesh

[ɪnˈmɛʃ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

to entangle

To enmesh is to become entangled or involved in something, often in a complex or negative way. It can refer to being trapped or entwined in physical or metaphorical nets.

Synonyms

ensnare, entangle, intertwine, involve.

Examples of usage

  • He felt enmeshed in the family drama.
  • The fish were enmeshed in the nets.
  • She didn't want to enmesh herself in political issues.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Enmeshment can occur in family dynamics, where boundaries are blurred and members become overly involved in each other's lives.
  • Therapists often see enmeshment as a barrier to individual identity, especially among individuals in close relationships.

Literature

  • The term is frequently used in literary works to describe complex relationships that trap characters in emotional struggles.
  • Notable authors like Virginia Woolf have explored themes of enmeshment in their narratives, depicting how characters are intertwined in both thoughts and actions.

Pop Culture

  • In cinematic storytelling, enmeshment is a common plot device, exemplified in films that explore family ties and their impact on personal choices.
  • Popular TV shows often portray characters experiencing enmeshment in friendships or family relationships, leading to dramatic conflicts.

Social Science

  • Sociologists study enmeshment to understand how societal norms can create dependencies among individuals and groups.
  • Research indicates that enmeshment can challenge personal autonomy, affecting individuals across various cultures.

Origin of 'enmesh'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the combination of 'in' and 'mesh', indicating something being caught within a net.
  • It was first used in the English language in the late 19th century, primarily in literary contexts.

The word 'enmesh' originated from the combination of the prefix 'en-' meaning 'to cause to be in', and 'mesh', which refers to a network or a net. The term evolved in the early 20th century, closely related to meaning of entangling or interweaving. In literature, 'mesh' can denote a physical net made of material, but 'enmesh' carries a broader symbolic meaning, indicating a complex intertwining of elements, often leading to complications or difficulties. As society became more complex, the term was increasingly used to describe emotional and psychological entanglements, showcasing how individuals can get caught up in relationships, obligations, or societal expectations.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #38,445, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.