unravel Definition
- 1to undo or untangle something that is knotted or woven together
- 2to solve or explain something that is complicated or confusing
Using unravel: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "unravel" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
She carefully unraveled the knot in the string.
Example
The detective worked tirelessly to unravel the mystery.
Example
The negotiations between the two countries began to unravel when one side refused to compromise.
Example
The sweater started to unravel after she accidentally snagged it on a nail.
unravel Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for unravel
Antonyms for unravel
Idioms Using unravel
Example
The company's finances began to unravel at the seams after a series of bad investments.
Example
The detective was determined to unravel the mystery of the missing jewels.
Example
Through careful investigation, the journalist was able to unravel the truth behind the politician's scandal.
Phrases with unravel
to become more and more complicated or confusing, especially as a result of attempts to solve a problem
Example
The situation has been raveling and unraveling for months now, with no clear resolution in sight.
Example
By studying ancient texts, historians hope to unravel the thread of human civilization and better understand our past.
Example
The spy was able to unravel the enemy's plot and prevent a major attack.
Origins of unravel
from Middle Dutch 'ravelen', meaning 'to tangle'
Summary: unravel in Brief
The verb 'unravel' [ʌnˈrævəl] means to undo or untangle something that is knotted or woven together, or to solve or explain something that is complicated or confusing. It can refer to physical objects like knots or woven fabrics, or abstract concepts like mysteries or problems. Examples include 'She carefully unraveled the knot in the string,' and 'The detective worked tirelessly to unravel the mystery.'