Unsnarling: meaning, definitions and examples

🌀
Add to dictionary

unsnarling

 

[ʌnˈsnɑːr.lɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

removal of tangles

Unsnarling refers to the process of removing tangles or knots from something. This verb is commonly used when talking about hair, ropes, or other items that can become intertwined. The act of unsnarling involves careful untangling to restore the item to its original state. It requires patience and sometimes special tools, especially if the tangle is particularly tight. In broader usage, it can metaphorically apply to resolving complications or difficulties in various situations.

Synonyms

detangle, unravel, untangle.

Examples of usage

  • She spent hours unsnarling her hair after the storm.
  • The technician focused on unsnarling the cables to prevent any electrical issues.
  • Unsnarling the fishing line took longer than expected.
  • He was adept at unsnarling complex problems at work.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The prefix 'un-' in English signifies reversal or negation, while 'snarl' comes from Middle English 'snerlen' meaning to make a tangled or confused situation.
  • The term combines the action of untangling and the imagery of an intricate mess, reflecting the transformative process of simplifying complexity.

Psychology

  • In cognitive psychology, the act of unsnarling can be linked to problem-solving processes where individuals work through complex issues step by step.
  • Unraveling challenges is crucial for mental well-being, helping to reduce anxiety associated with overwhelmed feelings.

Literature

  • Metaphors like 'unsnarling the web of lies' have been employed in classic literature to describe the process of revealing truth from deception.
  • In storytelling, the unsnarling often symbolizes character growth, where protagonists must confront and resolve complicated situations.

Pop Culture

  • In popular TV shows, characters frequently engage in unsnarling both relationships and plot lines, showcasing how tangled lives can become.
  • The theme of unsnarling can be seen in mystery genres where detectives untangle complex clues to reach the solution.

Science

  • In biology, cellular processes involve unsnarling the DNA during replication, a vital step for genetic information to be read correctly.
  • In physics, particles can become entangled, and researchers study processes akin to unsnarling to understand quantum states.

Translations

Translations of the word "unsnarling" in other languages:

🇵🇹 desenrolamento

🇮🇳 अनस्नार्लिंग

🇩🇪 Entwirrung

🇮🇩 membongkar

🇺🇦 розплутування

🇵🇱 rozplątywanie

🇯🇵 ほどくこと

🇫🇷 déroulage

🇪🇸 desenrollado

🇹🇷 çözme

🇰🇷 풀기

🇸🇦 فك

🇨🇿 rozmotávání

🇸🇰 rozmotávanie

🇨🇳 解开

🇸🇮 razvijanje

🇮🇸 afsnúning

🇰🇿 ашу

🇬🇪 გამოსახვა

🇦🇿 açma

🇲🇽 desenrollado

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #43,136, this word is among the least frequently used in common English. Understanding it can be beneficial for comprehensive language mastery, but it's not essential for most learners.