unraveled
UK: ʌnˈrævəld | US: ʌnˈrævəld
vt. 1. To separate or disentangle the threads of (a woven or knitted material).
vt. 2. To solve or clarify (a mystery, problem, etc.) by careful examination.
vi. 3. To become disentangled or resolved.
The word "unraveled" combines the prefix "un-" (Old English "un-," meaning "reverse action") with the root "ravel" (from Dutch "rafelen," meaning "to tangle or fray"). The suffix "-ed" marks the past tense or participle form. Originally, "ravel" meant to entangle, but with the addition of "un-," the meaning flipped to "undo a tangle." This reflects a common pattern in English where prefixes invert root meanings (e.g., "lock" → "unlock"). Over time, "unravel" gained metaphorical uses, such as solving complexities.
She carefully unraveled the knotted yarn.
The detective unraveled the conspiracy step by step.
Over time, the old sweater unraveled at the seams.
His explanation unraveled the confusion surrounding the event.
The plot of the novel slowly unraveled in the final chapters.