unravel
UK: ʌnˈrævəl | US: ʌnˈrævəl
vt. to separate or disentangle the threads of (a fabric, rope, etc.)
vt. to clarify or solve (a mystery, problem, etc.)
vi. to become disentangled or resolved
The word "unravel" combines the prefix "un-" (Old English "un-," meaning "not" or "reverse action") with the verb "ravel" (from Dutch "rafelen," meaning "to fray or tangle"). Originally, "ravel" meant both "to tangle" and "to untangle," creating an auto-antonym. The prefix "un-" was added to disambiguate, solidifying "unravel" as the act of undoing tangles. Over time, it extended metaphorically to solving complexities.
She carefully unraveled the knotted yarn.
The detective unraveled the mystery step by step.
Over time, the old rope began to unravel.
His plan started to unravel when key evidence emerged.
Scientists aim to unravel the secrets of the human brain.