entangle

Etymology

From Middle English entanglen (“to involve [someone] in difficulty”, “to embarrass”). Equivalent to en- + tangle.

verb

1. (transitive) To tangle up; to twist or interweave in such a manner as not to be easily separated.
   The dolphins became entangled in a fishing net.
2. (transitive) To involve in such complications as to render extrication difficult.
3. (transitive, figurative) To ensnare.
4. (transitive) To involve in difficulties or embarrassments; to embarrass, puzzle, or distract by adverse or perplexing circumstances, interests, demands, etc.; to hamper; to bewilder.