Labyrinthine

Characterized by or resembling a labyrinth; intricate and confusing. It implies a complex, maze-like arrangement, whether physically or conceptually. It often suggests difficulty in navigating, understanding, or finding a clear path. The term can be applied to physical spaces, processes, systems, narratives, legal documents, or even thought patterns. It highlights the presence of numerous interconnected pathways, obscuring the intended destination or solution. Often it carries a connotation of mystery, complexity, and potential for getting lost or bewildered. The word evokes the imagery of mazes, tunnels, and entangled systems, both literal and metaphorical, emphasizing the challenge of finding a straightforward course.

Labyrinthine meaning with examples

• The ancient city's labyrinthine streets, narrow and winding, were a challenge for even the most seasoned traveler to navigate, as the buildings' positioning created a sense of entrapment. Tourists often found themselves lost for hours, a true maze.
• The detective found the clues to be quite the labyrinthine puzzle, with seemingly unrelated facts and red herrings weaving together in a manner that was difficult to decipher and caused more questions than answers.
• The company's internal structure was a labyrinthine web of departments and subcommittees, making quick decisions and clear communication exceptionally difficult as it took time for one's query to get to the right person.
• The plot of the novel unfolded with a labyrinthine complexity, the intertwined stories and shifting perspectives creating a rich yet bewildering tapestry that kept the reader on their toes.
• The legal document presented was written with labyrinthine complexity, using confusing jargon and convoluted sentence structure, leaving the clients feeling very much unsure of what it all meant.