Synonyms of untangle

untangle

verb

ˌən-ˈtaŋ-gəl 

1

as in to unravel

to separate the various strands of

gently untangled the baby's hair

Synonyms & Similar Words

• unravel
• disentangle
• untwist
• unsnarl
• unweave
• untwine
• unbraid
• fray
• unlay
• ravel (out)
• undo
• untie
• smooth
• uncoil
• straighten (out)
• unroll
• unwind
• unknot
• unlace
• fret
• unthread
• unstring

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• entangle
• snarl
• tangle
• tie
• knot
• wind
• ply
• braid
• splice
• lace
• plait

2

as in to disentangle

to set free from entanglement or difficulty

I was finally able to untangle myself from my credit problems

Synonyms & Similar Words

• disentangle
• free
• save
• extricate
• liberate
• redeem
• disengage
• rescue
• cut loose
• release
• clear
• disembarrass
• unravel
• untie
• unburden
• deliver
• unsnarl
• untwine
• disencumber
• disburden

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• hinder
• impede
• obstruct
• entangle
• embroil
• hamper
• block
• burden
• weigh
• load
• encumber

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb untangle differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of untangle are disembarrass, disencumber, disentangle, and extricate. While all these words mean "to free from what binds or holds back," disentangle and untangle suggest painstaking separation of a thing from other things.

disentangling fact from fiction

untangle a web of deceit

When might disembarrass be a better fit than untangle?

The meanings of disembarrass and untangle largely overlap; however, disembarrass suggests a release from something that impedes or hinders.

disembarrassed herself of her advisers

When can disencumber be used instead of untangle?

The synonyms disencumber and untangle are sometimes interchangeable, but disencumber implies a release from something that clogs or weighs down.

an article disencumbered of jargon

When is it sensible to use extricate instead of untangle?

The words extricate and untangle are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, extricate implies the use of care or ingenuity in freeing from a difficult position or situation.

extricated himself from financial difficulties

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of untangle

Because family court dockets are heavily backlogged, critics say a guardian’s recommendation often becomes the final word, despite the grueling and complex nature of the disputes they are tasked with untangling. —Shira Moolten, Sun Sentinel, 4 June 2026

Scientists have long tried to untangle how pigeons travel without getting lost. —ABC News, 28 May 2026

Her husband John Legend, along with another woman on the carpet, knelt to untangle the dress's hem. —Brendan Le, PEOPLE, 26 May 2026

The Seattle Mariners were an out away from untangling a messy fifth inning against the Kansas City Royals on Sunday afternoon. —Jaylon Thompson, Kansas City Star, 24 May 2026