- Today's Word
Imbroglio
[im-BROHL-yoh]
Definition
- (noun) A complicated and confusing situation, often involving a misunderstanding or disagreement. It can describe a messy or embarrassing state of affairs, typically one that is complex and difficult to resolve.
Example
The political imbroglio that resulted from the leaked documents left voters confused and politicians scrambling to explain their actions.
Fun Fact
The word “imbroglio” comes from the Italian word “imbrogliare,” which means “to tangle” or “to confuse.” It entered the English language in the mid-18th century and has been used since then to describe particularly tangled or complex situations. In literature and drama, an imbroglio often refers to a complicated plot with multiple twists and misunderstandings.
(noun) The quality of appearing to be true or real; the convincing believability of a story, account, or portrayal.
The novelist spent months researching 19th-century London to give her story the verisimilitude it needed.