decipher
3 synonyms and 3 antonyms for decipher, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To work out the meaning of a code, unclear handwriting, or a confusing situation.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
How to use decipher
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
decipher a code
decipher handwriting
decipher the meaning
Etymology
From "de-" + "cipher," modeled on French déchiffrer — literally "to undo a cipher."
Full origin of decipher →Frequently asked questions
What does “decipher” mean?
The word “decipher” means to work out the meaning of a code, unclear handwriting, or a confusing situation. In plain terms, to figure out something that is hard to read or understand.
How do you pronounce “decipher”?
“Decipher” is pronounced dih-SEYE-fuh (/dɪˈsaɪfə(ɹ)/ in IPA).
How do you use “decipher” in a sentence?
Here is “decipher” used in a sentence: “Codebreakers worked for months to decipher the enemy's messages.”
What part of speech is “decipher”?
“Decipher” is a verb.
Where does the word “decipher” come from?
The word “decipher” comes from French. From "de-" + "cipher," modeled on French déchiffrer — literally "to undo a cipher.".
Is “decipher” a common word?
“Decipher” is an uncommon word in modern English.
