Unravel
/ʌnˈræv.əl/noun
To separate or become separated into threads or strands; by extension, to explain or solve something complex.
Did you know?The verb began as a literal action on cloth, but English later turned it into a powerful metaphor for things falling apart — or mysteries being exposed.
Etymological Timeline
Old English
OE
un- + reaflian
“to undo or separate threads; to loose or disarrange”
Middle English
ME
unravelen
“to take apart woven material, especially by pulling out threads”
16th Century
English
unravel
“to separate the threads of cloth or knitting”
17th Century
English
unravel
“to explain or disentangle something complex”
Modern English
English
unravel
“to separate into threads; to become disordered; to solve or explain”
Explore more surprising origins