Convoluted
/ˈkɒnvəluːtɪd/
Definitions
2 meaningsExtremely complex and difficult to follow or understand.
/ˈkɒnvəluːtɪd/
Excessively complex or intricate
The instructions were convoluted and impossible to understand.
💡 Simply: Imagine someone is trying to explain something to you, but they keep adding more and more details, making it harder to understand. That explanation is *convoluted*!
👶 For kids: When something is all tangled up and hard to figure out, like a puzzle that's way too tricky.
More Examples
The plot of the movie was convoluted and left the audience confused.
The legal process is often convoluted, requiring extensive paperwork.
How It's Used
"The argument was so convoluted that it was difficult to follow."
"The plot of the novel was deliberately convoluted, with many twists and turns."
"The brain's structure is highly convoluted, with many folds and ridges."
Having many folds, coils, or curves.
/ˈkɒnvəluːtɪd/
Having many folds or coils
The convoluted folds of the brain increase its surface area.
💡 Simply: Like a curly noodle or a swirly pattern on a piece of paper. Lots of bends and twists.
👶 For kids: When something has lots of turns and bends, like a squiggly line.
More Examples
The convoluted pattern on the seashell was beautiful.
The river followed a convoluted path through the valley.
How It's Used
"The convoluted surface of the brain allows for a greater surface area and more cognitive function."
"The convoluted layers of rock showed evidence of intense geological forces."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
Antonyms
From Latin *convolutus*, past participle of *convolvere* 'to roll together, involve', from *com-* 'together' + *volvere* 'to roll'.
Used since the 17th century to describe things that are rolled together or intricate, evolving to describe complex ideas.
Memory tip
Think of a *convoluted* maze – the path winds and turns so much that it's hard to find the exit. Convoluted things are the same: complicated and confusing.
Word Origin
"to roll together, involve"