verb
Uncommon
decipher
dih-SEYE-fuh
Decipher (verb) means to work out the meaning of a code, unclear handwriting, or a confusing situation. Example: “Codebreakers worked for months to decipher the enemy's messages.”
verb
1
To work out the meaning of a code, unclear handwriting, or a confusing situation.
"Codebreakers worked for months to decipher the enemy's messages."
"I could barely decipher the doctor's handwriting on the prescription."
How to use decipher
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo figure out something that is hard to read or understand.
Common pairings
decipher a code
decipher handwriting
decipher the meaning
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like decipher.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice
Word forms
- Plural
- deciphers
- Third person singular
- deciphers
- Past tense
- deciphered
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Codebreakers worked for months to _____ the enemy's messages.
Etymology
From "de-" + "cipher," modeled on French déchiffrer — literally "to undo a cipher."
Related words
Rhymes for decipher
See all rhymes for 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.
