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Synonyms

convoluted

American  
[kon-vuh-loo-tid] / ˈkɒn vəˌlu tɪd /

adjective

  1. twisted; coiled.

  2. complicated; intricately involved.

    a convoluted way of describing a simple device.


convoluted British  
/ ˈkɒnvəˌluːtɪd /

adjective

  1. (esp of meaning, style, etc) difficult to comprehend; involved

  2. wound together; coiled

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Other Word Forms

  • convolutedly adjective
  • convolutedness noun
  • unconvoluted adjective

Etymology

Origin of convoluted

First recorded in 1805–15; convolute + -ed 2

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Beyond that, there are 'zero kilowatt zones', 'power-limited periods' and a series of other intricacies that many in F1 believe have made the rules far too convoluted.

From BBC • Apr. 3, 2026

Despite the convenience of the one-stop concept, the process is so convoluted that some left frustrated and confused.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 1, 2026

The records can often be convoluted as borrowers are transferred to different servicers.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 11, 2026

The race to dominate artificial intelligence has created a financial superstructure of eye-watering corporate valuations, massive capital-expenditure plans, risky Wall Street trades and convoluted debt deals.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 22, 2026

Leaning forward and peering, Rick studied Pamina in her heavy, convoluted robes, with her wimple trailing its veil about her shoulders and face.

From "Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?" by Philip K. Dick