Definition of mangled

The word "mangled" has a rich history dating back to the 15th century. It comes from the Old French word "mangle," which means "to crush" or "to beat." This Old French word is derived from the Latin words "maniceps," meaning "crush" or "oppRESS," and "mani," meaning "hand." Initially, "mangle" referred to the act of crushing or beating something with one's hands or with an instrument. Over time, the meaning of the word expanded to include the idea of distortion or disfiguration, often in a violent or forceful manner. In the 17th century, the word "mangle" also took on a nautical meaning, referring to the act of twisting or tangling rope. Today, "mangled" is used to describe something that has been violently or forcibly deformed, damaged, or disfigured. Whether it's a piece of machinery, a person's body, or a piece of writing, "mangled" implies a sense of chaos, destruction, and distress.