interpret
ihn-TUR-priht
Interpret (verb) means to explain or work out the meaning of something, especially a language, gesture, sign, or piece of art. Example: “Scientists interpret the rings in a tree trunk to learn how old it is.”
verb
1
To explain or work out the meaning of something, especially a language, gesture, sign, or piece of art.
"Scientists interpret the rings in a tree trunk to learn how old it is."
"She interpreted the ancient inscription for the museum visitors."
"He interpreted her silence as a refusal."
2
To convert speech from one language into another in real time so people can understand each other.
"She was hired to interpret for visitors who spoke no English at the clinic."
"He can interpret at conferences, turning every speech into Spanish as it is spoken."
"A translator interpreted for the delegates throughout the summit."
3
Computing: to run a program by reading and carrying out its instructions one at a time, instead of compiling it first.
"The browser interprets each line of the script as the page loads."
"This scripting language interprets each command as it reads it, so there is no separate build step."
"Python code is interpreted rather than compiled into machine code ahead of time."
How to use interpret
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo figure out and explain what something means, or to translate speech live between languages.
Memory tip
Think of an interpreter as a live, spoken translator, while a translator usually works with written text.
Trace the full origin ↓
Easily confused with
Common pairings
interpret a dream
interpret the law
interpret data
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Word forms
- Third person singular
- interprets
- Past tense
- interpreted
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Scientists _____ the rings in a tree trunk to learn how old it is.
Etymology
From Old French enterpreter, from Latin interpretari, "to explain or expound," ultimately from an old word for a go-between or broker.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for interpret
See all rhymes for interpret →Frequently asked questions
What does “interpret” mean?
The word “interpret” means to explain or work out the meaning of something, especially a language, gesture, sign, or piece of art. In plain terms, to figure out and explain what something means, or to translate speech live between languages.
How do you pronounce “interpret”?
“Interpret” is pronounced ihn-TUR-priht (/ɪnˈtɝ.pɹɪt/ in IPA).
How do you use “interpret” in a sentence?
Here is “interpret” used in a sentence: “She interpreted the ancient inscription for the museum visitors.”
What is another word for “interpret”?
Words with a similar meaning to “interpret” include translate, explain, contrue, solve, render and expound.
What part of speech is “interpret”?
“Interpret” is a verb.
Where does the word “interpret” come from?
The word “interpret” comes from Latin. From Old French enterpreter, from Latin interpretari, "to explain or expound," ultimately from an old word for a go-between or broker.
Is “interpret” a common word?
“Interpret” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “interpret” have?
“Interpret” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to explain or work out the meaning of something, especially a language, gesture, sign, or piece of art.
What is the difference between "interpret" and "translate"?
Interpret usually refers to converting spoken language in real time, such as at a meeting or event, while translate typically refers to converting written text from one language to another. Interpret can also mean explaining the meaning of something non-verbal, like art or a gesture, which translate does not cover.
What does "interpret" mean in computer programming?
In computing, to interpret a program means to run it by reading and executing its instructions one at a time, rather than compiling the whole program into machine code first. This is why languages like Python are often called "interpreted languages."
What is the difference between an interpreter and a translator?
An interpreter works with spoken language, converting speech from one language into another in real time, while a translator works with written text. The two skills overlap but require different techniques, since interpreting demands quick, on-the-spot rendering.
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