Detangle

To detangle means to free something that is twisted, knotted, or entangled. It involves carefully separating and straightening out complex arrangements, whether physical or abstract. This can refer to literal objects like hair or wires, or it can apply metaphorically to complex situations or thoughts. The process often requires patience and a methodical approach to restore order and clarity. It's about resolving confusion and restoring a more organized or functional state, ultimately freeing up a thing, feeling, or situation from the complexity that was encumbering it.

Detangle meaning with examples

• She spent an hour detangling her daughter's long, curly hair, carefully using a wide-toothed comb. This task requires patience and gentleness to avoid causing pain or further knots. The result was smooth and manageable strands, ready for braiding.
• The electrician meticulously detangled the messy wires behind the entertainment system, ensuring everything was properly connected. This prevents short circuits and enhances system reliability. It ensured a safer and more efficient performance of the electronics.
• Before starting the project, the team spent a week detangling the complex web of regulations and approvals needed. Detangling the bureaucracy was the first step to get the project off the ground, clarifying the requirements.
• The therapist helped her client detangle her thoughts and feelings about the recent loss. Through careful questioning, she provided support in sorting and organizing what was on her mind, and helping with the grieving process.
• Using a flowchart, the software engineer began to detangle the confusing code of the legacy system. He needed to find the dependencies and interactions, which eventually resulted in a more streamlined and efficient program.