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Intricate Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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intricate

[ˈɪn.trɪ.kət ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

design

Very complicated or detailed, having many small parts or details

Synonyms

complex, complicated, elaborate, ornate.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
intricate

Used to describe something with many small, detailed, and interconnected parts. Often implies elegance and delicacy.

  • The artist's painting was intricate, with each brushstroke carefully placed to create a stunning image
complex

Describes something that consists of many different and connected parts, often difficult to understand. Commonly used in technical, scientific, and abstract contexts.

  • The human brain is a complex organ, with billions of neurons working together
complicated

Implies difficulty in understanding or solving due to multiple interconnected parts or steps. Can have a slightly negative connotation.

  • The instructions for assembling the furniture were too complicated for me to follow
elaborate

Used to describe something that is detailed and carefully planned or executed, often in an impressive or excessive manner.

  • The wedding decorations were elaborate, with flowers and lights adorning every corner of the venue
ornate

Describes something that is highly decorated, often in an intricate or complex way, usually to be visually impressive.

  • The palace was ornate, with gold accents and detailed carvings on every wall and ceiling

Examples of usage

  • The intricate pattern on the carpet was mesmerizing.
  • The clock mechanism was so intricate that only a skilled watchmaker could repair it.
Context #2 | Adjective

relationship

Involving a lot of detailed arrangements or small but important parts

Synonyms

complex, complicated, involved, sophisticated.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
intricate

Used to describe something with many small parts or details that are skillfully arranged.

  • The intricate design on the tapestry took years to complete.
  • She wore an intricate necklace made of fine gold chains.
complex

Refers to something that has many interconnected parts, often making it difficult to understand or analyze.

  • The human brain is a complex organ.
  • The situation is more complex than it appears at first glance.
complicated

Describes something that is difficult to understand due to its many interconnected parts, often carries a negative connotation of being overly difficult.

  • His relationship with his parents is quite complicated.
  • The instructions were so complicated that it took hours to assemble the desk.
involved

Implies a level of difficulty or complexity that requires effort and attention, often related to processes or situations.

  • The project was quite involved and required several weeks to complete.
  • Her explanation was very involved and hard to follow.
sophisticated

Used to describe something that is advanced, cultured, or highly developed, often associated with elegance and refinement.

  • He has a very sophisticated taste in music.
  • The software uses a sophisticated algorithm to analyze data.

Examples of usage

  • Their intricate plan required careful coordination of every step.
  • The intricate negotiations between the two countries lasted for months.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Art & Design

  • Intricate designs are often seen in patterns like lace, where each tiny part contributes to the overall beauty.
  • Many cultures, like in Islamic art, rely heavily on intricate patterns to create mesmerizing visuals that reflect spirituality.

Science

  • In biology, living organisms often display intricate structures, such as the neurons in our brains, which have complex connections.
  • The structure of DNA, recognized in the shape of a double helix, showcases intricacy at the molecular level critical for life.

Psychology

  • Studies suggest that complex tasks or puzzles can enhance cognitive abilities, improving problem-solving skills by engaging the brain's intricate pathways.
  • People often find beauty in complexity, which can evoke a deeper emotional response, as seen in music compositions with elaborate arrangements.

Literature

  • In literature, intricate plots weave together numerous subplots and character arcs, enriching the reader's experience, as found in works by authors like Shakespeare.
  • The use of intricate language or style can elevate a text, making it not only a story but an artistic expression, as seen in poetry.

Origin of 'intricate'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'intricatus,' which means 'entangled' or 'involved,' reflecting how complex things can be interconnected.
  • It entered the English language in the late 1600s, when the appreciation of detailed art and craftsmanship was rising.

The word 'intricate' has its roots in the Latin word 'intricatus', meaning 'entangled'. Over time, it came to signify something complex or detailed. The term has been used in English since the 15th century to describe things with many small parts or details.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,897 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.