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Definitions

knotty

[not-ee] / ˈnɒt i /
ADJECTIVE
troublesome
Synonyms
STRONGEST
complicated mystifying perplexing puzzling sticky thorny tricky
WEAK
Gordian baffling complex difficult effortful elaborate formidable hard intricate involved labyrinthine mazy nodulous problematical ramified reticular rough rugged sophisticated terrible tough uphill
Antonyms
STRONGEST
easy facile smooth
WEAK
simple uncomplicated untroublesome

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

As a portrait of an artist at a crossroads, it's compellingly knotty.

From BBC • Mar. 4, 2026

But she’s a reluctant sleuth in a knotty case with a head full of noise and a shaky hand on the lighter.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 13, 2025

Knox comprehends how knotty the process of reconciling with an ending that differs from what we want can be.

From Salon • Aug. 20, 2025

The singer's infectious energy and knotty pop-rock songs have been picking up new fans in every city.

From BBC • Apr. 5, 2025

Cady ran her fingers over the knotty red flowers stitched into it.

From "A Tangle of Knots" by Lisa Graff