Ravel Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐งถ
ravel
[หrรฆvษl ]
Definitions
untangle threads
To ravel means to become tangled or entwined, or to cause something to become tangled. It can also refer to the act of unravelling or loosening something that is tightly wound.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The yarn began to ravel after being stored improperly.
- She tried to ravel the knots in the fishing line.
- The story seemed to ravel into more confusion as it progressed.
create complexity
Ravel can also mean to complicate something or make it more intricate. In this sense, it can imply a sense of confusion rather than a physical entanglement.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- His explanation only served to ravel the issue further.
- The plot ravelled into multiple subplots, making it hard to follow.
- As the negotiations continued, the situation began to ravel.
tangled mess
In a less common usage, ravel can refer to a tangled or confused state or situation.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The project turned into a complete ravel as deadlines were missed.
- After the meeting, the plans were left in ravel.
- The fabric had a ravel that needed to be fixed.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- In literature, 'ravel' often depicts complicated situations where characters must resolve intricacies.
- In Shakespeare's plays, terms similar to 'ravel' are used to demonstrate the complexities of human relationships.
- The phrase 'to ravel out' is often used in poetry to express uncovering hidden truths.
Pop Culture
- In contemporary literature, characters often face dilemmas that 'ravel' their lives, showcasing personal growth.
- The term appears in various song lyrics, illustrating the theme of complex emotions and relationships.
- TV shows frequently use the concept of raveling and unraveling to describe plot twists and character arcs.
Psychology
- The brain sometimes 'ravels' information when stressed, leading to tangled thoughts and confusion.
- Therapeutic techniques aim to help individuals 'ravel' their thoughts to gain clarity and understanding.
- In psychology, raveling oneโs emotions can be crucial in processing and overcoming personal challenges.
Science
- In biology, DNA can undergo a raveling process due to stress or cellular interactions, impacting its function.
- Chemically, certain compounds ravel together to form complex structures, illustrating the idea of molecular entanglement.
- In the study of materials, raveling can refer to the behavior of fibers when exposed to environmental changes.
Origin of 'ravel'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from Middle English, where it meant to 'unravel' or to 'untangle'.
- Over time, 'ravel' has taken on dual meanings, where it can imply both knotting and untying.
- Interestingly, 'ravel' is derived from the Old French word 'ravailler', which means to 'tease out' or 'disentangle'.
The word 'ravel' has its origins in the early 17th century, derived from the Middle Dutch term 'ravelen,' which means to tangle, fray or unravel. The word was likely influenced by its association with textiles, as it was often used in the context of yarn or threads becoming intertwined. Over time, 'ravel' has taken on various meanings, notably not only indicating the act of tangling but also the act of making something more complicated or intricate. The dual meanings of ravel highlight the complexity and nuance of languageโwhile it traditionally pertains to physical entanglement, it has also adopted metaphorical connotations in literature and conversation, often signifying confusion or convolution in thought or narrative. Hence, 'ravelโ serves as a fascinating example of how words evolve and adapt in both form and function within the English lexicon. The flexible nature of 'ravel' has allowed it to maintain relevance in modern discourse, showcasing the dynamic quality of language.