Definition

Having many twists and knots, making it difficult to separate or untangle.

Example

The tangly vines made it hard to walk through the garden.

Comparatives & Superlatives

Conversation

Have you seen my headphones? I think they're all tangly again.

Yeah, I saw them earlier. They were on the table, looking pretty messy.

I really need to find a better way to store them to avoid this tangly mess.

Maybe you should get a cable organizer; it could help keep them neat.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Tangly → It is formed from "tangle" (from Middle English *tangel*, meaning to entangle or twist) and the suffix "-y" (meaning characterized by). The word "tangly" describes something characterized by being twisted or entangled.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'twisted' or 'entangled' — that's what 'tangly' means, as it describes the quality of being tangled.

Visually Confused Words