Tangled Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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tangled

[ˈtæŋ.ɡəld ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

hair

Twisted together in a messy or confused mass.

Synonyms

entangled, jumbled, knotted, matted.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
tangled	Used to describe things that are twisted or mixed together in a messy way. It usually refers to physical objects like hair, wires, or ropes. Her hair was so tangled that it took an hour to brush it out. The cables behind my computer are always tangled.
knotted	Refers to something tied into knots or having a series of knots. It is often used for ropes, strings, or muscles (when they are tensed up). The sailor expertly untied the knotted rope. After carrying heavy boxes, his shoulders felt knotted.
matted	Describes something tangled together in a flat, dense mass. It is commonly used for animal fur, hair, or anything that can form a thick layer. The dog's fur was matted after playing in the mud. Her matted hair was difficult to wash.
entangled	Often used to describe something that is caught or twisted with something else, especially in a way that it becomes difficult to separate. It can refer to both physical situations and complex, abstract ones such as relationships or legal issues. The dolphin became entangled in the fishing net. He found himself entangled in a legal dispute.
jumbled	Describes a messy or chaotic mix of things that are usually disorganized. It typically refers to a collection of items or thoughts that are mixed up rather than individual objects. The contents of the drawer were jumbled together. Her thoughts were a jumbled mess after the long day.

Examples of usage

My hair was tangled after the windy walk.
She tried to comb out the tangled knots.
The branches were all tangled together.
The wires were tangled behind the TV.
The necklace became tangled in her hair.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

situation

Involved in a complicated or confused situation.

Synonyms

embroiled, ensnared, entangled, involved.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
tangled	Use 'tangled' when referring to objects that are physically twisted together in a disordered way. Her hair was so tangled after the windy day.
entangled	Use 'entangled' to describe situations or relationships that are complicated or problematic, often difficult to separate or resolve. She found herself entangled in a complex legal battle.
embroiled	Use 'embroiled' when describing someone who is deeply involved in conflict or a complex situation, often implying difficulty or drama. He became embroiled in a heated argument at the meeting.
ensnared	Use 'ensnared' when someone or something is trapped, especially in a deceptive or manipulative way. This word often carries a negative connotation. The innocent man was ensnared in a web of lies.
involved	Use 'involved' to describe active participation or engagement in an activity, situation, or relationship. This word is neutral and commonly used. He was heavily involved in the charity event.

Examples of usage

She found herself tangled in a web of lies.
The negotiations became tangled and difficult.
He was tangled up in a series of misunderstandings.
The two countries were tangled in a diplomatic dispute.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Literature

In fairy tales like 'Rapunzel,' being tangled reflects the struggles and challenges faced by the characters.
Authors often use the theme of tangles, whether in plot or relationships, to symbolize confusion and conflict.

Pop Culture

The Disney movie 'Tangled' offers a modern twist on the classic Rapunzel story, showcasing themes of freedom and self-discovery.
The film highlights the idea of overcoming obstacles, with literal tangles representing deeper emotional struggles.

Psychology

People often use the term 'tangled' metaphorically to describe their thoughts or feelings when they feel confused or overwhelmed.
Therapeutic approaches sometimes involve 'untangling' thoughts to help individuals understand their emotions better.

Science

In biology, DNA strands can become tangled in complex shapes, which is important for how they function in cells.
Tangled plaquettes in mathematics often symbolize challenges in understanding complex problems.

Origin of 'tangled'

Main points about word origin

The word 'tangled' comes from the Old Norse word 'tangla,' meaning to mix or intertwine.
The suffix '-ed' indicates that the condition is the result of an action, in this case, being wrapped up.
Tangled is often used in literature to describe complex situations, whether physical like hair or metaphorical like relationships.

The word 'tangled' comes from the Middle English word 'tanglen', which means 'to entangle'. It is related to the Old English word 'tang', meaning 'seaweed'. The concept of things being twisted together has been part of human language for centuries, reflecting the universal experience of dealing with messy or complicated situations.

See also: entangle, tangledly, untangle.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #12,067, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.

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