intricacy

noun

in·​tri·​ca·​cy ˈin-tri-kə-sē How to pronounce intricacy (audio)
plural intricacies
Synonyms of intricacy
1
: the quality or state of being intricate
2
: something intricate
the intricacies of a plot

Synonyms of intricacy

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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
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.
Its uniquely wide view will also help scientists decode the intricacies of dark matter and dark energy while perhaps clearing up some contradictions about our universe that scientists have been scratching their heads over for decades. — Monisha Ravisetti, Space.com, 30 Aug. 2026 Johnson also wants his QB1 to make the next jump with some of the intricacies involved with coverage recognition. — Dan Wiederer, New York Times, 26 Aug. 2026 The intricacies of the interpersonal dynamics and conversational turns in the scene ground the dispute in emotion, and two characters who were once at odds find common ground. — Literary Hub, 24 Aug. 2026 The intricacies of state voter ID laws, student voting advocates point out, can trip up many of the country's least experienced voters. — Hansi Lo Wang, NPR, 17 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for intricacy

Word History

First Known Use

1602, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of intricacy was in 1602

Browse Nearby Words

intrepidness
intricacy
intricate
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Intricacy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/intricacy. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

intricacy

noun
in·​tri·​ca·​cy ˈin-tri-kə-sē How to pronounce intricacy (audio)
plural intricacies
1
: the quality or state of being intricate
2
: something intricate
the intricacies of the plot
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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