decipher

[dih-sahy-fer]

verb (used with object)

1. to make out the meaning of (poor or partially obliterated writing, etc.).

   to decipher a hastily scribbled note.

2. to discover the meaning of (anything obscure or difficult to trace or understand).

   to decipher hieroglyphics.

   Synonyms: explain, unravel, solve, comprehend

3. to interpret by the use of a key, as something written in cipher.

   to decipher a secret message.

4. Obsolete.,  to depict; portray.

decipher

/ dɪˈsaɪfə /

verb

1. to determine the meaning of (something obscure or illegible)

2. to convert from code into plain text; decode

Other Word Forms

• decipherable adjective
• decipherability noun
• decipherer noun
• decipherment noun
• undecipherable adjective
• undecipherably adverb
• undeciphered adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of decipher¹

First recorded in 1520–30; translation of Middle French déchiffrer; equivalent to de- + cipher

Example Sentences

They decipher games with a fine-tooth comb when the truth is that they are decided either by defensive mistakes or good play in the final third, both of which produce goal-scoring opportunities.

Read more on BBC

For kids who cope by masking, constantly deciphering and mimicking social responses is often cognitively and emotionally exhausting.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

But constantly deciphering and mimicking social responses is cognitively and emotionally exhausting.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

The S-shaped copper sculpture has baffled cryptography enthusiasts since its 1990 installation on the grounds of the CIA headquarters in Virginia, with three of its four messages deciphered so far.

Read more on Barron's

Though private-sector economists have continued to be paid as usual, unlike the federal workers who missed paychecks, they say it’s been hard to decipher the direction of the economy.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• analyze 
• break down 
• decode 
• deduce 
• elucidate 
• interpret 
• solve 
• translate 
• unravel