tangled

[ tang-guhld ]

adjective

1. snarled, interlaced, or mixed up:

   tangled thread.

2. very complicated, intricate, or involved:

   tangled bureaucratic procedures.

Word History and Origins

Origin of tangled¹

First recorded in 1580–90; tangle ¹ + -ed ²

Example Sentences

The tangled wars in Sudan, Ethiopia and their neighbours cry out for bold action - and if he were so minded, Trump might cut the Gordian Knot.

From BBC

In 1989, McLaren team-mates Ayrton Senna and Alain Prost tangled at the chicane during the Japanese Grand Prix as Senna tried to pass Prost.

From BBC

Albon tangled with Ferrari young driver Oliver Bearman, driving Charles Leclerc’s car for the session, and spun into the barriers at the Esses.

From BBC

Prof Stewart told Tina her husband's brain was "totally tangled up with abnormal proteins and CTE deposits".

From BBC

This documentary uncovers the tangled web of a catfishing conspiracy.

From Salon

Related Words

• complicated
• confused
• entangled
• intricate
• involved