labyrinth

 
Pronunciation: /ˈlab(ə)rɪnθ/

noun

  • 1a complicated irregular network of passages or paths in which it is difficult to find one’s way; a maze: you lose yourself in a labyrinth of little streets
  • an intricate and confusing arrangement: a labyrinth of conflicting laws and regulations
  • 2 Anatomy a complex structure in the inner ear which contains the organs of hearing and balance. It consists of bony cavities (the bony labyrinth) filled with fluid and lined with sensitive membranes (the membranous labyrinth).
  • Zoology an accessory respiratory organ of certain fish.

Derivatives

labyrinthian

Pronunciation: /-ˈrɪnθɪən/
adjective

Origin:

late Middle English (referring to the maze constructed by Daedalus to house the Minotaur): from French labyrinthe or Latin labyrinthus, from Greek laburinthos

Spelling help

Spell labyrinth with -byr- in the middle.

a labyrinth of baffling Yorkshire roads.