Definition

Having many knots or difficult to untangle; also refers to something that is complex or hard to understand.

Example

The knotty problem took hours to solve.

Comparatives & Superlatives

Conversation

Did you see that knotty problem in our math homework?

Yeah, I stared at it for ages and still couldn't figure it out.

I think it's one of those that really requires some extra thought.

Definitely! Some of these questions are just too knotty to solve quickly.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Knotty → The word originates from the Old English 'cnotta' (meaning knot) and the suffix '-y' (meaning characterized by). Thus, 'knotty' describes something characterized by knots or having many knots.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'characterized by knots' — that's what 'knotty' means.

Visually Confused Words