interpret
Forms
- present (v1)
- interpret
- past (v2)
- interpreted
- past participle (v3)
- interpreted
- present participle
- interpreting
- 3rd person singular
- interprets
Definitions
1.To decode the meaning of a topic and then act, whether to continue researching the topic, follow through, act in opposition, or further the understanding through sharing an interpretation.
2.To explain or tell the meaning of; to translate orally into intelligible or familiar language or terms. applied especially to language, but also to dreams, signs, conduct, mysteries, etc.
3.To apprehend and represent by means of art; to show by illustrative representation.
- The way the musician interpreted a sonata was quite special.
- The actor interpreted the character of Hamlet with great skill.
4.To convey what a user of one language is saying or signing, in real time or shortly after that person has finished communicating, to a user of a different language.
- He interpreted at the meeting between the Chinese and French associates.
Frequency
Overall
Uncommon· #2905
By learning goal
- Everyday conversation
- Rare
- General reading & writing
- Uncommon
- Academic
- Uncommon
- Literature
- Rare
Related words
Synonyms
Word family
Etymology
From Middle English interpreten
From Old French enterpreter, (French interpréter)
From Latin interpretor (“to explain, expound, interpret”), past participle interpretatus
From interpres (“an agent, broker, explainer, interpreter, negotiator”)