intricate
adjective
in·tri·cate
ˈin-tri-kət 
1
: having many complexly interrelating parts or elements : complicated
intricate machinery
an intricate plot
2
: difficult to resolve or analyze
intricately
adverb
intricateness
noun
Synonyms
Examples of intricate in a Sentence
Filigree is an ancient technique that creates an intricate, lace-like pattern through the combination of wire swirls and shapes.
—
Jeanne Rhodes-Moen, Step by Step Wire Jewelry, Fall 2007
Tsunami generation involves intricate interactions among earthquakes, landslides, and "sympathetic" vibrations between the quake and the ocean above it.
—Robert Koenig, Science, 17 Aug. 2001
However, other random processes can be quite intricate; for example, the fluctuating prices of stocks are difficult to explain because there are so many variables and combinations of variables that are influencing the prices.
—Lloyd Jaisingh, Statistics for the Utterly Confused, 2000
The movie has an intricate plot.
an intricate machine that requires some training to use it properly
Jeanne Rhodes-Moen, Step by Step Wire Jewelry, Fall 2007
Tsunami generation involves intricate interactions among earthquakes, landslides, and "sympathetic" vibrations between the quake and the ocean above it.
—Robert Koenig, Science, 17 Aug. 2001
However, other random processes can be quite intricate; for example, the fluctuating prices of stocks are difficult to explain because there are so many variables and combinations of variables that are influencing the prices.
—Lloyd Jaisingh, Statistics for the Utterly Confused, 2000
The movie has an intricate plot.
an intricate machine that requires some training to use it properly
Recent Examples on the Web
The true essence of project success lies in understanding the intricate connections of internal dynamics that make each organization unique.
—Goran Paun, Forbes, 21 Nov. 2024
There is a special challenge to bringing these patterns to life on a watch dial, which is a preposterously small canvas for such intricate designs.
—Carol Besler, Robb Report, 21 Nov. 2024
These historic residences, built between 1923 and 1938, retain many original architectural details, such as intricate plasterwork, decorative murals, and grand rooms that reflect the elegance of a past era.
—Brendel Hightower, Detroit Free Press, 21 Nov. 2024
Inspired by Pixar’s smash hit film, this series will immerse viewers in the intricate dynamics of life on the reef and beyond as the underwater citizens engage in friendship, deception, romance, and resilience.
—Joe Otterson, Variety, 19 Nov. 2024
See all Example Sentences for intricate 
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Goran Paun, Forbes, 21 Nov. 2024
There is a special challenge to bringing these patterns to life on a watch dial, which is a preposterously small canvas for such intricate designs.
—Carol Besler, Robb Report, 21 Nov. 2024
These historic residences, built between 1923 and 1938, retain many original architectural details, such as intricate plasterwork, decorative murals, and grand rooms that reflect the elegance of a past era.
—Brendel Hightower, Detroit Free Press, 21 Nov. 2024
Inspired by Pixar’s smash hit film, this series will immerse viewers in the intricate dynamics of life on the reef and beyond as the underwater citizens engage in friendship, deception, romance, and resilience.
—Joe Otterson, Variety, 19 Nov. 2024
See all Example Sentences for intricate
Dictionary Entries Near intricate
Cite this Entry
“Intricate.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/intricate. Accessed 28 Nov. 2024.
Copy CitationKids Definition
intricate
adjective
in·tri·cate
ˈin-tri-kət
: having many complexly interrelating parts, elements, or considerations : complicated
an intricate design
difficult to solve the intricate puzzle
intricately
adverb
intricateness
noun
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share