wrangle
UK: ˈræŋ.ɡəl | US: ˈræŋ.ɡəl
vi. to argue or dispute angrily or noisily
vt. to herd or manage (livestock, especially horses)
n. a noisy or contentious argument
wrangle = wrang<twist, dispute> + le<frequentative verb suffix>
- wrang<twist, dispute>: Derived from Middle English wranglen, related to Old English wringan (to twist, press). The sense of "dispute" evolved from the physical act of twisting or wrestling.
- le<frequentative verb suffix>: A suffix indicating repeated or habitual action (e.g., sparkle, dazzle).
Etymology Origin:
The word wrangle originated in Middle English, combining the idea of physical twisting (from Old English wringan) with the frequentative suffix -le, suggesting repeated or ongoing conflict. Initially tied to wrestling or physical struggle, it later broadened to include verbal disputes, especially in the context of herding livestock, where noisy arguments were common.
The siblings continued to wrangle over their inheritance for years.
Cowboys would often wrangle stray cattle back into the herd.
The meeting devolved into a pointless wrangle about minor details.
She had a talent for wrangling unruly students into cooperation.
Political debates frequently turn into public wrangles rather than constructive discussions.