interpretive

[in-tur-pri-tiv]

adjective

1. serving to interpret; explanatory.

2. deduced by interpretation.

3. made because of interpretation.

   an interpretive distortion of language.

4. of or relating to those arts that require an intermediary, as a performer, for realization, as in music or theater.

5. offering interpretations, explanations, or guidance, as through lectures, brochures, or films.

   the museum's interpretive center.

Other Word Forms

• interpretively adverb
• noninterpretive adjective
• noninterpretively adverb
• noninterpretiveness noun
• self-interpretive adjective
• uninterpretive adjective
• uninterpretively adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of interpretive¹

First recorded in 1670–80; interpret + -ive

Example Sentences

In the intervening years, interpretive speculation about it has run rampant.

From Los Angeles Times

More than 600 staffers — including interpretive park rangers, biologists, firefighters and fee collectors — are now represented by the National Federation of Federal Employees.

From Los Angeles Times

At the Bowl this time, Dudamel reached new and surprising interpretive depths.

From Los Angeles Times

“There were places where we could be more fluid and interpretive, but that shirt was not one of them,” recalls Deutch, with genuine seriousness.

From Los Angeles Times

Raspy, soulful, raw and expressive, he's one of rock and roll's best interpretive singers.

From BBC

Related Words

• analytical 
• informative