decipher

[ dih-sahy-fer ]

verb (used with object)

1. to make out the meaning of (poor or partially obliterated writing, etc.):

   to decipher a hastily scribbled note.

2. to discover the meaning of (anything obscure or difficult to trace or understand):

   to decipher hieroglyphics.

   Synonyms: explain, unravel, solve, comprehend

3. to interpret by the use of a key, as something written in cipher:

   to decipher a secret message.

4. Obsolete. to depict; portray.

decipher

/ dɪˈsaɪfə /

verb

1. to determine the meaning of (something obscure or illegible)
2. to convert from code into plain text; decode

Derived Forms

• deˈcipherable, adjective
• deˌcipheraˈbility, noun
• deˈcipherer, noun
• deˈcipherment, noun

Other Words From

• de·cipher·a·ble adjective
• de·cipher·a·bili·ty noun
• de·cipher·er noun
• de·cipher·ment noun
• unde·cipher·a·ble adjective
• unde·cipher·a·bly adverb
• unde·ciphered adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of decipher¹

First recorded in 1520–30; translation of Middle French déchiffrer; equivalent to de- + cipher

Example Sentences

This hypothesis provides new leads to decipher the mechanisms of epidermal renewal.

From Science Daily

It’s that feeling of studying a photo of an ancestor, marveling at their outfit, trying to decipher who they were through each stylistic detail.

From Los Angeles Times

What a joy it’s going to be trying to decipher whatever is said by whoever becomes Trump’s press secretary, with Budowich in charge behind the scenes.

From Salon

The scientist played a crucial role in the Allies' victory over Nazi Germany in World War Two by helping to crack codes and deciphering the infamous Enigma machine at Bletchley Park.

From BBC

Soon enough we understand its role in deciphering the woman sitting before us, centered in an opulent room with a lush bouquet of stargazer lilies behind her.

From Salon

Related Words

• analyze
• break down
• decode
• deduce
• elucidate
• interpret
• solve
• translate
• unravel