Intricate

Adjective. 'Intricate' describes something composed of many detailed or complex parts. It suggests a level of complexity that can be fascinating and even beautiful, but also potentially difficult to understand or work with.

It often implies that these details are carefully arranged and interconnected, contributing to the overall design or function.

The term can be applied to physical objects, systems, ideas, or even artistic creations, highlighting their elaborate nature and the attention to detail required in their construction or understanding.

Consider 'intricate' when describing anything that requires close examination or specialized knowledge to fully appreciate its workings or significance.

Intricate meaning with examples

• The watchmaker spent years perfecting the intricate mechanism of the antique clock, painstakingly assembling each tiny gear and spring.
• The novelist weaved an intricate plot with numerous subplots, red herrings, and carefully placed clues that kept readers guessing until the very end.
• The dancer's performance was full of intricate footwork and graceful movements, each step precisely timed to create a captivating visual display.
• Unraveling the intricate web of corporate finance to understand how each branch works and how the organisation makes money has been a long endeavour.
• The intricate stained-glass window of the cathedral depicted a biblical scene in exquisite detail, with vibrant colors and delicate brushwork giving off a divine presence.