Describe

/dɪˈskraɪb/

Meaning & Definition

verb
To give an account of someone or something by giving details of its characteristics.
She described the beautiful landscape with vivid imagery.
To represent something in words.
The lawyer described the events that led to the trial.
To convey the appearance or characteristics of something.
The witness was asked to describe the suspect.
To depict or delineate in speech or writing.
He described his experience of hiking the mountain.

Etymology

From Latin 'describere', which means 'to write down' or 'to copy out'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

describe in detail
To give a thorough explanation of something.
describe the scene
To explain what is happening in a particular place.
describe your feelings
To articulate one's emotions or sentiments.

Related Words

description
A spoken or written representation of a person, object, or event.
descriptive
Giving details about something in a way that makes it easy to visualize.

Slang Meanings

To hype up or exaggerate the qualities of someone or something.
He was describing that new car like it was a spaceship!
To give a rundown of an event or situation in a casual manner.
Let me describe what went down at the party last night.