verb
interpret
in-TUR-pruht/ɪnˈtɜːrprət/
To convey an understanding of what something means.
The museum guide interprets the painting for a group of visitors.
Etymology
Latin interpretari covered both explaining and understanding. The English verb preserves the explanatory side: making the meaning of something clear or explicit.
In context
you can use the texture of an igneous rock to interpret the environment in which it formed and then you can actually start to recreate the history of a landscape
More examples
- I interpreted her silence as a sign of agreement.
- He interprets between Spanish and English during medical appointments.
- Each pianist interprets the same piece a little differently.
Forms
interpret · interprets · interpreted · interpreting
interpretation noun — A particular understanding or explanation of meaning.
interpreter noun — Someone who translates spoken or signed communication.