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Definition of "interpret" []

  • To explain the meaning of: interpreted the ambassador's remarks. See Synonyms at explain. (verb-transitive)
  • To conceive the significance of; construe: interpreted his smile to be an agreement; interpreted the open door as an invitation. (verb-transitive)
  • To present or conceptualize the meaning of by means of art or criticism. (verb-transitive)
  • To translate orally. (verb-transitive)
  • To offer an explanation. (verb-intransitive)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

Use "interpret" in a sentence
  • "The claim of authority to interpret is the greatest lie and has caused the greatest travesties upon the people."
  • "Now, let us grant that when scientists engage entities that cannot be weighed and measured they often flounder, project, and interpret from the human perspective."
  • "Simply pretending there's nothing confounding to interpret is stupid."