decipher
verb (used with object)
to make out the meaning of (poor or partially obliterated writing, etc.).
is deciphering
-
present progressiveof decipher (3rd person singular).present progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or state that is currently taking place in the immediate present.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Part of our role as credit investors is deciphering between the two.
From Barron's ● Oct. 23, 2025
But his most striking accomplishment is deciphering Roman ephemera—wooden and lead tablets that, miraculously, archeologists still unearth from time to time around the province formerly known as Britannia.
From The New Yorker ● May 1, 2017
"That's my whole thing is deciphering, decoding the music, and trying to stay away from the triumph of the obvious," he said.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 18, 2015
“The biggest challenge is deciphering my husband’s writing when he decides to put his two cents in,” she joked.
From Washington Post ● Mar. 19, 2014
In fact, it is deciphering a profound cipher.
From Light On The Path and Through the Gates of Gold by Mabel Collins
