adj
intricate
IHN-trih-kuht
adj
1
Made up of many small, finely detailed parts; complex.
"The watch had an intricate network of tiny gears inside it."
"She admired the intricate embroidery on the wedding dress."
How to Use Intricate
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishFull of fine, complicated detail — the opposite of simple.
Common mistake
Don't confuse with "intrinsic" (built-in/essential) — intricate is about complexity of detail, not inherent nature.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
intricate design
intricate pattern
intricate details
Word Forms
more intricate comparative, intricated past tense, intricates singular, most intricate superlative
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The watch had an _____ network of tiny gears inside it.
Etymology
From Latin intrīcātus, "entangled," the past participle of intricāre.