knotted
UK: ˈnɒtɪd | US: ˈnɑːtɪd
adj. 1. Tied or fastened with a knot.
adj. 2. Tangled or intricately twisted.
adj. 3. (of muscles) Tense and hard.
The word "knotted" derives from the Old English "cnotta," meaning a fastening made by intertwining. The suffix "-ed" transforms the noun into an adjective or past participle, indicating a state of being tied or tangled. The concept of knots has ancient roots in practical uses (e.g., sailing, weaving) and symbolic meanings (e.g., complexity, unity). Over time, "knotted" expanded metaphorically to describe tension (e.g., knotted muscles) or confusion (e.g., knotted thoughts).
She carefully untangled the knotted shoelaces.
The rope was so knotted that it took hours to loosen.
His stomach felt knotted with anxiety before the speech.
The old tree had knotted roots sprawling across the ground.
Her hair was knotted after spending the day in the wind.