complicate

[kom-pli-keyt, kom-pli-kit]

verb (used with object)

complicated, complicating 

1. to make complex, intricate, involved, or difficult.

   His recovery from the operation was complicated by an allergic reaction.

adjective

1. complex; involved.

2. Entomology.,  folded longitudinally one or more times, as the wings of certain insects.

complicate

verb

1. to make or become complex

adjective

1. biology folded on itself

   a complicate leaf

2. a less common word for complicated

Other Word Forms

• overcomplicate verb (used with object)
• precomplicate verb (used with object)
• recomplicate verb (used with object)
• uncomplicate verb (used with object)

Word History and Origins

Origin of complicate¹

1615–25; < Latin complicātus (past participle of complicāre to fold together), equivalent to com- com- + -plic- (combining form of *plecāre to fold, akin to plectī to plait; complex ) + -ātus -ate ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of complicate¹

C17: from Latin complicāre to fold together, from plicāre to fold

Example Sentences

Australians have a complicated relationship with the sun: they love it, but they also fear it.

From BBC

The practice was complicated for online providers by illicit marketplaces that popped up selling account passwords.

From Los Angeles Times

"This is often far too little time to make this decision - especially in the case of complicated and far-reaching legislation," the report stated.

From BBC

Mr Cook's older brother Chris Cook, 50, told the BBC the family were told the news just days after the 20th anniversary of his death and it raised complicated emotions.

From BBC

Within that range, the mileage cost is cheaper than diesel - although it's complicated when taking account other factors, such as higher capital costs, lower maintenance costs and the unclear impact of depreciation.

From BBC

Related Words

• convolute 
• impede 
• involve 
• muddle 
• obscure 
• perplex 
• upset