interpret
/ɪnˈtɝ.pɹɪt/
UK: /ɪnˈtɜː.pɹɪt/
ꞮNTɝ · pɹɪt (2 syllables)
Definition
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.
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”), from inter (“between”) + -pres, probably the root of pretium (“price”); -pres is probably connected with Ancient Greek φράζειν (phrázein, “to point out, show, explain, declare, speak”), from which φραδή (phradḗ, “understanding”), φράσις (phrásis, “speech”); see phrase.
Example Sentences
- "to interpret an Indian speech"
- "The Holy Bible, Matthew i. 23. Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us."
- "The Holy Bible, Genesis xli. 8. And Pharaoh told them his dreams; but there was none that could interpret them unto Pharaoh."