unravel
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ʌnˈrævəl/
KK: /ʌnˈrævəl/
intransitive verb
Definition
To come apart or separate into individual threads or parts.
Example
As the sweater was washed, it began to unravel at the seams.
Tense Forms
Past: unraveled
Past Participle: unraveled
Conversation
I tried to solve that puzzle, but I think it's going to unravel soon.
Yeah, those things can get pretty complicated really fast.
I hate when it starts to unravel, it makes me feel frustrated.
I totally get that! Sometimes a break helps clear your mind.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
untangle
disentangle
unwind
Antonyms
tangle
knot
entangle
transitive verb
Definition
To untangle or separate something that is twisted or complicated, making it clearer or easier to understand.
Example
She tried to unravel the mystery of the missing keys.
Tense Forms
Past: unraveled
Past Participle: unraveled
Conversation
I found this old sweater in my closet, but it's completely tangled.
Oh no! Can you unravel it without ruining it?
I think so, but it might take a while to figure it out.
Root Explanation
Unravel → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not or opposite of) and "ravel" (from Middle English *ravelen*, meaning to tangle or entangle). The word "unravel" means to undo or separate something that is tangled or complicated.
Memory Tip
Think of 'un-' meaning not and 'ravel' meaning to tangle — so to unravel is to not be tangled anymore.
Visually Confused Words
ungravely
unbravely
unreave
ungrave
unbrave
ravel
navel
untraveled