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Entwine: meaning, definitions and examples

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entwine

[ɪnˈtwaɪn ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

in a romantic context

To twist or wind together, especially in an intricate or delicate way. To become closely involved or entangled with someone.

Synonyms

interlace, intertwine, interweave, twine.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
entwine

To describe a situation where things are closely wrapped or twisted together, often in a romantic or poetic manner.

  • The lovers' hands were entwined as they walked down the beach.
  • The vines entwined around the old tree.
twine

To describe the action of twisting something around another thing, often used for ropes, cords, or plants.

  • The ivy twined around the fence.
  • She twined the ribbon around the gift box.
intertwine

When two or more things are twisted together in a complex way, often implying a strong connection or relationship.

  • Their lives were intertwined by fate.
  • The roots of the plants intertwined underground.
interlace

To describe the action of weaving or crossing things together in a delicate or intricate pattern.

  • She interlaced her fingers and rested her chin on them.
  • The branches of the trees interlaced above their heads, forming a natural canopy.
interweave

Used to describe the process of weaving together different elements to create a cohesive whole, often in abstract or figurative contexts.

  • The author interweaves multiple storylines to create a rich narrative.
  • The fabric was interwoven with fine gold threads.

Examples of usage

  • Their lives became entwined after meeting at the art gallery.
  • Their destinies were entwined from the moment they first locked eyes.
Context #2 | Verb

in a literal context

To twist or interweave (something) together. To twist or wind around something.

Synonyms

coil, twist, weave, wrap.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
entwine

Used when two or more things are twisted together closely, often used in contexts that suggest intimacy or interdependence.

  • The vines entwined around the old tree.
  • Their fingers entwined as they walked down the beach.
twist

Describes the action of turning something in a spiral shape; also used metaphorically to describe changing something in an unexpected way.

  • She twisted the towel to get the water out.
  • The plot of the movie had a surprising twist.
weave

Refers to the process of interlacing threads, fibers, or other materials to form a fabric or pattern; also used metaphorically to describe creating something complex and interconnected.

  • She weaved a beautiful tapestry.
  • He weaves a compelling argument in his essay.
coil

Typically describes something long and flexible that is wound into a circular shape or series of loops.

  • The snake coiled itself around the branch.
  • He coiled the rope and placed it neatly on the ground.
wrap

Indicates covering something completely with a flexible material by winding or folding around it.

  • She wrapped the gift in colorful paper.
  • He wrapped the blanket around himself to stay warm.

Examples of usage

  • She entwined the flowers into a beautiful wreath.
  • The vines entwined around the old oak tree.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Old English 'entwīnan', which means 'to twist together'.
  • It is made up of 'en-' (to make) and 'twine' (to twist), which gives a clear idea of its meaning.

Literature

  • The concept of entwining appears often in poetry to symbolize unity or connection between people or ideas.
  • In Shakespeare's works, characters often dialogue about how their fates are entwined, suggesting a deeper bond.

Science

  • In biology, species can entwine through symbiotic relationships where they depend on one another for survival.
  • Certain plants, like ivy, have climbing habits that allow them to entwine around structures or other plants for support and light.

Art

  • Artists often use entwined shapes in their works to portray harmony and connection between subjects.
  • In sculpture, entwining figures can evoke strong emotional responses, reflecting relationships and interdependence.

Pop Culture

  • Songs and movies frequently depict love stories where the lives of characters are entwined, highlighting their emotional connections.
  • The notion of entwining is a common theme in fantasy novels, where characters' destinies are intricately linked.

Translations

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Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #34,598 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.