convolve

verb

con·​volve kən-ˈvälv How to pronounce convolve (audio)
-ˈvȯlv,
 also  -ˈväv,
 or  -ˈvȯv
convolved; convolving

transitive verb

: to roll together : writhe

intransitive verb

: to roll together or circulate involvedly

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Latin convolvere "to give a whirling motion to, roll round or up, coil, twist, wrap round," from con- con- + volvere "to set in a circular course, cause to roll" — more at wallow entry 1

First Known Use

1616, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

Time Traveler
The first known use of convolve was in 1616

Dictionary Entries Near convolve

Cite this Entry

“Convolve.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/convolve. Accessed 23 Nov. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!