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Definition of disentangle

disentangle

/ˌdɪs.ɪnˈtæŋ.ɡəl/
dis · en · tan · gle
Past Simple:disentangled
•
Past Participle:disentangled
•
Present Participle:disentangling
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disentangle Lexical Profile

disentangle Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To free or separate (something or someone) from knots, twists, or something that is holding or trapping them.

Example

"The fishermen spent hours trying to disentangle the young sea turtle from the abandoned nylon netting."

2

To separate different ideas, facts, or factors so that they can be understood clearly, or to free oneself from a complicated situation.

Example

"Researchers are working to disentangle the genetic factors of the condition from environmental influences."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for disentangle

• Nearby Words

disengage
disengaged
disengagement
disentangle
disentanglement
disfavor
disfiguration

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the late 16th century from the prefix 'dis-' (expressing reversal) and 'entangle', which ultimately derives from a Scandinavian source akin to Old Norse 'tengja' (to fasten) or dialectal Swedish 'tangel' (seaweed).

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Disentangle. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/disentangle
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