Entwined: meaning, definitions and examples

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entwined

 

[ɪnˈtwaɪnd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

in a relationship

To be entwined means to be twisted or interwoven together, especially in a close or intimate relationship.

Synonyms

interconnected, interlaced, intertwined.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
entwined

Often used to describe things that are physically wrapped around each other or deeply involved emotionally or historically.

  • The vines were entwined around the ancient tree.
  • Their fates were entwined after that fateful day.
intertwined

Used to describe things or people that are closely connected or tangled together, often used for both physical and abstract connections.

  • The ropes were tightly intertwined, making it difficult to untangle them.
  • Their lives and careers had become closely intertwined over the years.
interconnected

Used when discussing systems, networks or ideas that are linked together and affect each other.

  • The global economy is highly interconnected.
  • Our lives have become more interconnected thanks to social media.
interlaced

Describes something that is woven together in a way that forms a complex pattern, often used for fabrics, fingers, or narratives.

  • Her fingers were interlaced as she listened intently.
  • The stories of the main characters were beautifully interlaced throughout the novel.

Examples of usage

  • Their lives became entwined after meeting at the university.
  • Their destinies were entwined from the moment they were born.
Context #2 | Verb

objects twisted together

To be entwined also means to twist or wind together multiple objects or entities.

Synonyms

coil, twist, wind.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
entwined

This word is often used to describe things that are closely wrapped around each other in an intricate or complex way, often implying a delicate or intimate connection. It is commonly used in romantic or poetic contexts.

  • Their fingers were entwined as they walked along the beach.
  • The ivy had entwined itself around the old fence.
twist

This word is used to describe something being turned or bent out of shape. It can be used both literally and metaphorically, and often implies a forceful or abrupt action.

  • She twisted the cap off the bottle.
  • The plot of the story had several unexpected twists.
wind

Use this word when describing something being turned or wrapped around in a spiral or circular manner. It is commonly used to describe actions involving cords, strings, or paths.

  • He wound the string around the package.
  • The path wound through the dense forest.
coil

Use 'coil' to describe something being wound into a series of loops or spirals. This word is often used in mechanical, natural, or technical contexts.

  • The snake coiled itself around the branch.
  • She coiled the rope neatly and placed it on the shelf.

Examples of usage

  • The vines were entwined around the tree trunk.
  • The snake entwined itself around the branches.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'entwined' comes from the Old English 'twinian,' meaning to twist.
  • The prefix 'en-' suggests bringing into or within, emphasizing the act of becoming wrapped together.
  • This term has been used since the 15th century to describe various forms of close connection, both physical and metaphorical.

Literature

  • Writers often use 'entwined' to describe relationships, symbolizing deep emotional connections and complexities.
  • Poets may describe nature in terms of entwined forms, like roots and vines, to illustrate life's interconnectedness.
  • In many myths, characters' fates are entwined, showcasing how their lives impact one another dramatically.

Art

  • Visual art often depicts entwined figures to symbolize intimacy or struggle, such as in classical sculptures and paintings.
  • Modern abstract art might use twisted lines and forms to convey dynamics of relationships and entangled emotions.
  • In dance, movements can be entwined to represent unison, connection, and the play of light and shadow.

Psychology

  • The concept of emotional entwinement in relationships suggests that individuals can become highly dependent on each other.
  • Psychological studies show that entwined relationships can lead to a heightened sense of personal identity through shared experiences.
  • However, too much entwinement might also lead to challenges, such as loss of individuality and issues with boundaries.

Nature

  • In botany, many plants intertwine their roots for stability and nutrient sharing, showcasing collaboration in nature.
  • Some animals, like snakes, are known for entwining themselves around branches or each other for warmth and safety.
  • Sea creatures, like anemones, can become entwined with clownfish, forming a mutualistic relationship that benefits both species.

Translations

Translations of the word "entwined" in other languages:

🇵🇹 entrelaçado

🇮🇳 लिपटा हुआ

🇩🇪 verflochten

🇮🇩 terjalin

🇺🇦 переплетений

🇵🇱 splątany

🇯🇵 絡み合った

🇫🇷 entrelacé

🇪🇸 entrelazado

🇹🇷 iç içe geçmiş

🇰🇷 얽힌

🇸🇦 متشابك

🇨🇿 propletený

🇸🇰 prepletený

🇨🇳 交织的

🇸🇮 prepleten

🇮🇸 fléttað

🇰🇿 ширатылған

🇬🇪 გადახლართული

🇦🇿 dolaşıq

🇲🇽 entrelazado

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,917, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.