Tense settler in a confused state (6)

I believe the answer is:

tangle

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'confused state' is the definition.
'tangle' can be an answer for 'state' (tangle is a kind of state). I'm not sure about the 'confused' bit.

'tense settler' is the wordplay.
'tense' becomes 't' (abbreviation used in many dictionaries).
'settler' becomes 'angle' (I have seen 'Early settler' mean 'angle' so perhaps 'settler' could also mean 'angle').
't'+'angle'='TANGLE'

'in a' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for tangle that I've seen before include "Confused state; seaweed" , "Entwine, snarl" , "Twist, snarl, knot" , "argument" , "Jumble" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.

Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.