Entangled: meaning, definitions and examples

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entangled

 

[ɪnˈtæŋɡəld ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

in a confusing or complicated relationship

Entangled describes a situation where things are twisted together in a complicated way, making it difficult to separate them. It can also refer to being involved in a complex or difficult relationship with someone.

Synonyms

complicated, entwined, involved.

Examples of usage

  • They found themselves entangled in a web of lies and deceit.
  • She felt entangled in a toxic relationship that was hard to break free from.
Context #2 | Verb

to become twisted or caught in something

Entangled can also be used as a verb to describe the action of becoming twisted or caught in something. It implies a state of being trapped or ensnared.

Synonyms

ensnared, trapped, twisted.

Examples of usage

  • The fishing net became entangled in the propeller of the boat.
  • She managed to untangle the necklace that had become entangled in her hair.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word originates from the Middle English 'entanglen,' meaning to ensnare or confound.
  • It combines the prefix 'en-' (to make) with 'tangle,' which refers to a twisted form.
  • This term related to trapping or binding has old roots in the languages of Old Norse and Dutch.

Science

  • In quantum physics, particles can become entangled, meaning the state of one instantly affects the state of another, regardless of distance.
  • Entanglement is a phenomenon used in various technologies, including quantum computing and cryptography.
  • The Einstein-Podolsky-Rosen paradox discusses how entangled particles challenge classical ideas about locality and determinism.

Literature

  • The theme of entanglement often appears in literature, representing complex relationships between characters.
  • Notable works, like Shakespeare's 'A Midsummer Night’s Dream,' explore tangled love triangles and misunderstandings among characters.
  • Modern novels frequently depict societal entanglements, highlighting how individual choices affect community dynamics.

Psychology

  • In psychology, relationships can become entangled when individuals lose their identity by being too involved with one another.
  • Therapeutic practices often focus on disentangling emotional entanglements to help individuals understand their own feelings separately.
  • Family dynamics sometimes lead to psychological entanglements, where boundaries blur and roles become confused.

Pop Culture

  • The movie 'Entangled' creatively depicts characters whose fates are interwoven, showcasing life's unpredictability.
  • TV shows often use plot twists that leave characters 'entangled' in complicated situations, reflecting real-life dilemmas.
  • Music videos sometimes illustrate themes of entanglement through visual metaphors, like intertwining vines or ropes.

Translations

Translations of the word "entangled" in other languages:

🇵🇹 emaranhado

🇮🇳 उलझा हुआ

🇩🇪 verwickelt

🇮🇩 terjerat

🇺🇦 заплутаний

🇵🇱 splątany

🇯🇵 絡み合った (karamiatta)

🇫🇷 emmêlé

🇪🇸 enredado

🇹🇷 dolaşmış

🇰🇷 얽힌

🇸🇦 متشابك

🇨🇿 zamotaný

🇸🇰 zamotaný

🇨🇳 纠缠的 (jiūchán de)

🇸🇮 zapleten

🇮🇸 flæktur

🇰🇿 шатасқан

🇬🇪 გახლართული (gakhartuli)

🇦🇿 dolaşmış

🇲🇽 enredado

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,725, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.