Part of Speech

Verb

Pronunciation

/ɪnˈtwaɪn/

Definitions

• 1. To twist or wind together or around something.
• 2. To be twisted or wound around something.
• 3. To combine or link closely, especially in a complicated or intricate way.

Usage Examples

1. "The vines entwine around the trellis, creating a lush green wall."

2. "Her fingers entwined with his as they walked down the street."

3. "The story of their lives was entwined with love, hardship, and triumph."

Etymology

The word "entwine" is derived from Middle English "entwinen," from the Old English "entwinnan," meaning "to wind around" or "to twist." The prefix "en-" suggests the action of causing or making, while "twine" comes from the Old French "twiner," meaning "to twist." The word has been in use since the early 13th century.

Synonyms

• Twist
• Weave
• Wind
• Intertwine
• Bind

Antonyms

• Untwine
• Unravel
• Separate
• Disentangle
• Untwist

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In American English, the "t" in "entwine" is often slightly softened.
• In British English, the pronunciation tends to have a crisper "t" sound, more distinctly enunciated.
• In Australian English, the pronunciation may be quicker and more fluid with slight reduction in the vowels.

Historical Usage

The word "entwine" has been used since the late Middle English period, derived from the Old English "entwinnan," meaning "to twist or wind together." It has historically been used in literature to describe both literal and metaphorical processes of intertwining or combining elements, whether in nature, human relationships, or abstract concepts like fate or destiny.

Cultural Nuances

In various cultures, the concept of entwining carries symbolic meaning. In many wedding traditions, the act of entwining is a common ritual, symbolizing the binding together of two lives. In nature, entwining vines or branches represent growth, connection, and strength through unity. The act of entwining can also suggest a deep connection or bond between individuals, often implying something that cannot easily be undone.

More Information

The verb "entwine" is often used to describe the physical intertwining of objects, such as vines, ropes, or threads, but it is also used in a broader sense. It may refer to the intertwining of emotions, fates, or destinies. The concept of entwining can be found across many cultures and contexts, from nature to human relationships, where it conveys the complexity of bonds formed between people or elements. In literature, the term often appears as a metaphor for the connection between characters or the entanglement of events that shape their lives.