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decipher
[ dih-sahy-fer ]
verb (used with object)
- to make out the meaning of (poor or partially obliterated writing, etc.):
to decipher a hastily scribbled note.
- to discover the meaning of (anything obscure or difficult to trace or understand):
to decipher hieroglyphics.
Synonyms: explain, unravel, solve, comprehend
- to interpret by the use of a key, as something written in cipher:
to decipher a secret message.
- Obsolete. to depict; portray.
decipher
/ dɪˈsaɪfə /
verb
- to determine the meaning of (something obscure or illegible)
- to convert from code into plain text; decode
Derived Forms
- deˈcipherable, adjective
- deˌcipheraˈbility, noun
- deˈcipherer, noun
- deˈcipherment, noun
Other Words From
- de·cipher·a·ble adjective
- de·cipher·a·bili·ty noun
- de·cipher·er noun
- de·cipher·ment noun
- unde·cipher·a·ble adjective
- unde·cipher·a·bly adverb
- unde·ciphered adjective
Word History and Origins
Example Sentences
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.
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.
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.
As I try to decipher what these polls mean, I often find myself muttering, “Will someone please save me from this troublesome priest?”
Only 34 days until the election, Jon Stewart is on a mission to help his viewers decipher through Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump's differing and sometimes confusing policy statements.
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