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Enmeshed: meaning, definitions and examples

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enmeshed

 

[ ɛnˈmɛʃt ]

Adjective
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

Translations of the word "enmeshed" in other languages:

🇵🇹 emaranhado

🇮🇳 जुड़ा हुआ

🇩🇪 verwickelt

🇮🇩 terjerat

🇺🇦 заплутаний

🇵🇱 uwikłany

🇯🇵 絡まった

🇫🇷 enchevêtré

🇪🇸 enredado

🇹🇷 dolaşmış

🇰🇷 얽힌

🇸🇦 مُتَعَقَّد

🇨🇿 zapletený

🇸🇰 zamotaný

🇨🇳 纠缠的

🇸🇮 vpet

🇮🇸 vafinn

🇰🇿 күрделенген

🇬🇪 დაბლოკილი

🇦🇿 qarışıq

🇲🇽 enredado

Etymology

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.