Raveled

The past tense and past participle of 'ravel,' meaning to tangle or complicate; to become unwound, disjointed, or confused; or to separate or disentangle threads or strands, literally or metaphorically. It implies a breakdown of order, structure, or coherence. This can apply to physical objects, abstract ideas, relationships, or even mental states. The process of 'raveling' often suggests a gradual, progressive deterioration or a process of analysis that reveals underlying complexities.

Raveled meaning with examples

• The old tapestry, left exposed to the elements, had raveled over time, the once vibrant threads now loose and frayed. Its intricate design, once a masterpiece of craftsmanship, was slowly disappearing as the fabric succumbed to decay. The artist watched with a heavy heart as years of labour raveled into a pile of useless mess.
• Her carefully constructed argument began to ravel under the weight of contradictory evidence, each point undermining the previous one. The logical framework, which she had believed to be sound, began to fall apart as the audience asked more and more challenging questions, revealing flaws. Her confidence raveled with each skeptical expression.
• Years of suppressed resentment raveled the family's relationship, leaving bitterness and distrust between the siblings. The accumulated unspoken grievances became like tangled threads, making it impossible to mend the bond. Their shared history, once a source of strength, now seemed to unravel a little more each day.
• As the detective delved deeper into the case, the web of lies and deception began to unravel, exposing a network of corruption. The seemingly straightforward investigation turned into a labyrinth of intrigue. With each new discovery, the truth began to unravel piece by piece.
• The politician's campaign strategy raveled after a series of public gaffes and scandals, exposing the lack of a strong, coherent message. The carefully constructed image of the candidate collapsed under intense scrutiny and increasing negative press. Public support, once seemingly secure, began to unravel at an alarming pace.