tangle
verb (used with object)
to bring together into a mass of confusedly interlaced or intertwisted threads, strands, or other like parts; snarl.
have tangled
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present perfectof tangle.present perfect
Used to describe actions that started in the past and continue into or have direct relevance to the present.
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.
Both firms have tangled with the Justice Department over bribery allegations in the past, including in Latin America.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jan. 17, 2026
This isn’t the first time Ohio’s police forces have tangled with rogue seasonal decor.
From Salon ● Oct. 12, 2025
That’s a question filmmakers and writers have tangled with ever since the 1964 debut of the tiny, largely unpaid laborers in Roald Dahl’s beloved children’s book “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.”
From New York Times ● Dec. 15, 2023
Ever since the law’s enactment, lawyers and lobbyists have tangled over whether “reasonable” terms include a reasonable price.
From Los Angeles Times ● Dec. 13, 2023
‘You know what I mean. You’re immune. Or, heck, give me some of those nice water grenades and I’ll go. Ares and I have tangled before.’
From "Blood of Olympus" by Rick Riordan
