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Enmeshed Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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enmeshed

[ɛnˈmɛʃt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

involved, tangled

Enmeshed refers to being entangled or involved in a complicated situation, often with emotional or psychological implications. It typically describes a state where an individual is caught up in the dynamics of a relationship or system that is so intertwined that they cannot easily separate themselves. The term suggests a lack of boundaries and highlights how one person's experiences can heavily influence another's. In psychological contexts, being enmeshed can lead to unhealthy dependencies and hinder personal growth.

Synonyms

entangled, involved, woven.

Examples of usage

  • She felt enmeshed in her family's expectations.
  • Their lives became enmeshed after years of joint ventures.
  • The organization was enmeshed in a complex web of regulations.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • In psychology, being enmeshed can describe relationships where personal boundaries are unclear, often leading to dependency.
  • Families with enmeshed dynamics may struggle with individual identity because members are overly involved in each other's lives.

Pop Culture

  • In movies and television, characters often find themselves enmeshed in complex relationships that lead to drama or conflict.
  • The phrase 'enmeshed in a web of lies' is commonly used in stories to depict characters trapped by their own deceit.

Literature

  • Authors frequently use the concept of being enmeshed to highlight character struggles, depicting how entangled lives can complicate conflict resolution.
  • Symbolically, enmeshment can represent deeper themes of fate and choice in narrative arcs within literature.

Science

  • In biology, organisms can be enmeshed within ecosystems, emphasizing interdependence within food webs and habitats.
  • The notion of enmeshment can also apply to technological networks, illustrating how modern systems rely on interconnected components.

Origin of 'enmeshed'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'enmeshed' comes from the verb 'mesh,' which originally meant to make a net.
  • Combining 'en-' (meaning 'in') with 'mesh' reflects the idea of being caught within a net or network.

The word 'enmeshed' is derived from the prefix 'en-', meaning to cause to be in, combined with 'mesh', which has its origins in the Old English 'masca' meaning a net or fabric, and the Old French 'mesche', meaning a web. The usage of 'enmesh' began in the early 20th century, often in both literal and metaphorical contexts. In literature and psychology, it has come to be associated with complex relational dynamics, particularly in family systems and interpersonal relationships. The connotation of entanglement often suggests a lack of agency or autonomy for the individuals involved, making it a prominent topic in discussions about personal boundaries and emotional wellness.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,548, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.