The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook by BETTER WORDS R. B. Skinner

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unravel

verb

/ənˈrævəl/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of unravel

To undo, disentangle or solve a complicated problem or situation.
"The team worked together to unravel the complicated code."

Detailed meaning of unravel

When you unravel something, you are often working to separate or untangle individual parts that are intertwined, either physically or conceptually. This could involve untangling a knot in a piece of string, unwinding a tangled web of lies, or decoding a complex issue to understand its underlying causes and consequences. Unraveling something can require patience, attention to detail, and careful analysis. By the end of the process, you may have a clearer understanding of how different parts fit together, or you may have successfully solved a difficult problem. Unraveling is an important skill that can be useful in many different contexts, from personal relationships to scientific research.

Example sentences containing unravel

1. She worked tirelessly to unravel the mystery.
2. Time will eventually unravel the truth.
3. The detective sought to unravel the complex case.
4. The scientist hoped to unravel the secrets of the universe.
5. They needed to unravel the knots in the rope.
6. A good therapist can help you unravel your emotions.

History and etymology of unravel

The verb 'unravel' has its etymological origins in the Middle English word 'unravellen.' This Middle English term is a combination of 'un-' (indicating reversal) and 'ravellen,' which means 'to entangle' or 'to confuse.' It is related to the Old French word 'raveler,' which has similar meanings. In its original sense, 'unravel' described the action of undoing or disentangling something that was intricately woven or complicated. Over time, the word evolved to encompass the broader meaning of solving a complicated problem or situation by methodically untangling its complexities. This etymology underscores the idea of reversing the entanglement or confusion, emphasizing the process of clarity and resolution in dealing with intricate issues.

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Further usage examples of unravel

1. The team is determined to unravel the encryption.
2. The unraveling of the conspiracy shocked everyone.
3. He tried to unravel the intricacies of the software.
4. The professor aimed to unravel the enigma of the manuscript.
5. She began to unravel the thread of her thoughts.
6. The negotiators worked to unravel the deadlock.
7. It's challenging to unravel the complexities of the human mind.
8. The artist's work seeks to unravel societal norms.
9. The journalist hopes to unravel the truth behind the story.
10. The team will unravel the root causes of the problem.
11. The unraveling of the plot kept readers on the edge of their seats.
12. The researcher is determined to unravel the genetic code.
13. They wanted to unravel the tangle of bureaucracy.
14. His curiosity led him to unravel the ancient legend.
15. The detective worked tirelessly to unravel the mystery.
16. The sweater started to unravel after being washed in hot water.
17. The artist used a brush to unravel the colors on the canvas.
18. The lawyer tried to unravel the complex legal case for the jury.
19. The spy mission was compromised when their plan started to unravel.
20. The counselor helped the client unravel the underlying causes of their anxiety.
21. The archaeologist carefully unraveled the ancient scroll to read its contents.
22. The teacher used various methods to help the student unravel the difficult math problem.
23. The journalist spent years trying to unravel the truth about the corrupt politician.
24. The traveler was determined to unravel the culture and customs of the foreign land.
25. The researcher hoped to unravel the secrets of the human brain.