Meaning & Definition of word "Read"

Read

/rɛd/

noun:

  • 1. An act of reading; something that is read.
    • Example: This book is a good read for anyone interested in science fiction.
  • 2. A piece of written work or literature.
    • Example: Her latest article is a fascinating read.

verb:

  • 1. To look at and comprehend the meaning of written or printed matter.
    • Example: She loves to read novels on the weekends.
  • 2. To interpret or understand something from evidence or signs.
    • Example: He could read the tension in the room before the meeting started.
  • 3. To perform the act of reading; to utter aloud the written words.
    • Example: The teacher asked the students to read the text aloud.

Etymology

Old English 'rēdan', meaning 'to advise, counsel, interpret'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

read between the lines:

To understand a deeper or hidden meaning.

read the room:

To assess the mood or feelings of a group of people.

read up on:

To study or gather information about a subject.

read the tea leaves:

To make a prediction based on a situation.

read aloud:

To vocalize written text for others to hear.

Related Words

reader:

A person who reads or is reading.

reading:

The action or skill of reading written or printed matter.

readable:

Able to be read easily.

Slang Meanings of read

Meaning: To understand or grasp something quickly.

Example Sentence: I read him like a book and knew he was lying.

Meaning: To criticize someone through comments or observations.

Example Sentence: She totally read him for his bad fashion choices.

Meaning: To assume or explain based on appearances.

Example Sentence: Don't just read the surface of what he said.