Meaning & Definition of word "Decipher"
Decipher
/dɪˈsaɪ.fər/
verb:
- 1. To convert (a text written in code, or a coded signal) into ordinary language; to interpret or make sense of something.
- Example: The archaeologists worked for years to decipher the ancient inscriptions on the stone tablet.
- 2. To discover the meaning of something that is difficult to understand, often involving solving a puzzle or mystery.
- Example: She managed to decipher the clues left in the diary to reveal the location of the hidden treasure.
- 3. To determine the intended meaning of intricate or unclear communication.
- Example: The technician had to decipher the error messages displayed on the machine.
- 4. To interpret a thought or feeling expressed non-verbally or in a complex manner.
- Example: It can be challenging to decipher what someone truly feels based on their body language.
Etymology
●Origin from the medieval Latin 'decipherare', from 'de-' meaning 'down from' + 'ciphers' meaning 'to write in code'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
decipher the code:
to figure out the meaning behind a coded message.
decipher the message:
to understand the meaning of a written message that is unclear.
decipher someone's feelings:
to understand someone's emotions when they are not openly expressed.
Related Words
decode:
To convert a coded message into an understandable form.
cipher:
A method of transforming a text to conceal its meaning.
interpret:
To explain the meaning of something.
Slang Meanings of decipher
Meaning: To figure something out.
● Example Sentence: I had to decipher what she was trying to say during the argument.
Meaning: To understand a complex situation.
● Example Sentence: It took me a while to decipher the drama in that group.