intricate

[ in-tri-kit ]

adjective

1. having many interrelated parts or facets; entangled or involved:

   an intricate maze.

   Synonyms: labyrinthine, tangled, knotty

2. complex; complicated; hard to understand, work, or make:

   an intricate machine.

intricate

/ ˈɪntrɪkɪt /

adjective

1. difficult to understand; obscure; complex; puzzling
2. entangled or involved

   intricate patterns

Derived Forms

• ˈintricacy, noun
• ˈintricately, adverb

Other Words From

• intri·cate·ly adverb
• intri·cate·ness noun
• un·intri·cate adjective
• un·intri·cate·ly adverb
• un·intri·cate·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of intricate¹

First recorded in 1375–1425; late Middle English, from Latin intrīcātus “entangled,” past participle of intrīcāre “to entangle,” from in- in- ² + trīc(ae) “perplexities” + -āre, infinitive verb suffix

Word History and Origins

Origin of intricate¹

C15: from Latin intrīcāre to entangle, perplex, from in- ² + trīcae trifles, perplexities

Example Sentences

These hurdles are compounded when it comes to building more intricate 3D microfluidic networks.

From Science Daily

He taught himself on a small loom, creating intricate swatches of fabric, before expanding into ready-to-wear and formally launching his brand in 2020.

From Los Angeles Times

In an effort to counteract this public health crisis, scientists are looking for new solutions inside the intricate mechanics of bacterial infection.

From Science Daily

Highlighting the star's intricate choreography, the Independent, awarded four stars, saying "melancholy, oddly intimate" performance "frequently leaves you breathless."

From BBC

Trump mostly ignored the intricate conspiracy-tracing in favor of sweeping claims about hordes of criminals and mental patients being shipped to the U.S., and delusional narratives about "the late, great Hannibal Lecter."

From Salon

Related Words

• baroque
• complex
• convoluted
• difficult
• labyrinthine
• sophisticated
• tangled
• tortuous
• tricky