unravel
Americanverb (used with object)
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to separate or disentangle the threads of (a woven or knitted fabric, a rope, etc.).
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to free from complication or difficulty; make plain or clear; solve.
to unravel a situation; to unravel a mystery.
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Informal. to take apart; undo; destroy (a plan, agreement, or arrangement).
verb (used without object)
verb
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(tr) to reduce (something knitted or woven) to separate strands
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(tr) to undo or untangle (something tangled or knotted)
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(tr) to explain or solve
the mystery was unravelled
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(intr) to become unravelled
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of unravel
Explanation
However tempting, don't pull that straggly thread hanging from your sleeve. You'll just unravel, or totally undo, your hand-knitted sweater. Something that's unraveled has been completely undone, whether it's a spool of thread, some knotty shoelaces, or your mental state after a long and frustrating day. You can also unravel a mystery by picking it apart, untangling the details or just following the trail of clues like a line of string.
Vocabulary lists containing unravel
Power Prefix: un-
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List 11
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Where the Red Fern Grows
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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.
In April 2024 - one month after the trial of facts was held - the act began to unravel, the court heard.
From BBC • May 12, 2026
There is already a lack of solidarity in this country, a major crisis would undoubtedly unravel what’s left of it.
From Salon • May 11, 2026
Gen. Rob Bonta has enlisted new allies in his legal battle to unravel Nexstar Media Group’s takeover of rival television station group Tegna Inc.
From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 30, 2026
But there is a risk "it will, over time, unravel."
From Barron's • Apr. 25, 2026
She could unravel it behind her as she explored.
From "The Mark of Athena" by Rick Riordan
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
