intricacy

noun

in·​tri·​ca·​cy ˈin-tri-kə-sē 

plural intricacies

1

: the quality or state of being intricate

2

: something intricate

the intricacies of a plot

Synonyms of intricacy

• complexity
• difficulty
• complication

Examples of intricacy in a Sentence

She admired the composition for its beauty and intricacy.

I had trouble following all the intricacies in the plot.

the intricacies of English grammar

Recent Examples on the Web

The PvE in Orion doesn't sacrifice any of those intricacies or density. — Fran Ruiz, Space.com, 3 Nov. 2026

This unique selling technique also gives them the chance to explain the intricacies of the fabrics and the specialized, traditional techniques used to create each piece. — Jean E. Palmieri, Footwear News, 2 Nov. 2026

The pair hunched over a laptop, studying the intricacies of Miller’s approach to shutting off the baseline on defense. — Julia Poe, Chicago Tribune, 28 Oct. 2026

Between the milk to matcha ratios, to whether or not a drink needs a cold foam, the two take their time to understand the intricacies of making a tasty drink. — Rashad Alexander, Kansas City Star, 28 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1602, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

intricacy

noun

in·​tri·​ca·​cy ˈin-tri-kə-sē 

plural intricacies

1

: the quality or state of being intricate

2

: something intricate

the intricacies of the plot