entanglement
UK: ɪnˈtæŋɡəlmənt | US: ɪnˈtæŋɡəlmənt
n. 1. The state of being twisted or caught in something complex or difficult to escape.
n. 2. (Physics) A quantum phenomenon where particles remain connected even when separated.
n. 3. A complicated or conflicted relationship or situation.
The word "entanglement" originates from the Middle English "tangle" (to twist or snarl), derived from Old Norse "þöngull" (seaweed, something twisted). The prefix "en-" (from Old English "in") adds the sense of being "caught into" a twisted state. The suffix "-ment" (from Latin "-mentum") forms a noun indicating the result of an action. Over time, the term evolved from literal physical twisting (e.g., ropes) to abstract complexities (e.g., relationships, quantum physics).
The kitten got into an entanglement with a ball of yarn.
Quantum entanglement challenges our understanding of space and time.
Their legal entanglement lasted for years.
The hiker freed himself from the entanglement of thorny bushes.
Diplomatic entanglements often arise from misunderstandings.