interpret

views updated May 17 2018

in·ter·pret / inˈtərprit/ • v. (-pret·ed, -pret·ing) [tr.] 1. explain the meaning of (information, words, or actions): the evidence is difficult to interpret. ∎  [intr.] translate orally the words of another person speaking a different language: I agreed to interpret for Jean-Claude. ∎  perform (a dramatic role or piece of music) in a particular way that conveys one's understanding of the creator's ideas.2. understand (an action, mood, or way of behaving) as having a particular meaning or significance: her self-confidence was often interpreted as brashness.DERIVATIVES: in·ter·pret·a·bil·i·ty / -ˌtərpritəˈbilitē/ n.in·ter·pret·a·ble adj.in·ter·pre·ta·tive / -ˌtātiv/ adj.in·ter·pre·ta·tive·ly / -ˌtātivlē/ adv.in·ter·pre·tive / -ˈtərpritiv/ adj.in·ter·pre·tive·ly / -ˈtərpritivlē/ adv.

interpret

views updated May 23 2018

interpret XIV. — (O)F. interpréter or its source L. interpretārī explain, translate, f. interpres, -pret- agent, broker, translator, interpreter, f. INTER- + unkn. el.
Hence interpreter XIV. So interpretation XIV.

About this article

interpret

All Sources -
Updated Aug 08 2016 About encyclopedia.com content Print Topic