decipher
verb (used with object)
to make out the meaning of (poor or partially obliterated writing, etc.).
was deciphering
-
past progressiveof decipher.past progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or continuous state that was happening at a specific time in the past.
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.
Brent was deciphering a Rubik’s Cube beside him, but pretended not to hear his grandparents arguing or his cousin crying.
From The New Yorker ● Oct. 28, 2019
A big hurdle was deciphering the 100 page-long regulation book issued by the International Bobsleigh and Skeleton Federation and written entirely in English, which included a lot of technical language and jargon.
From Reuters ● Dec. 4, 2013
Foul problems plagued both teams, but the Huskies' biggest problem was deciphering a 2-3 zone that took Matthew Bryan-Amaning out of the game and limited their high-scoring offense.
From Seattle Times ● Jan. 31, 2011
Even while the victim was deciphering the fatal paper, he had restrained with impatience the desire to burst out into bitter laughter.
From The Market-Place by Harold Frederic
He stood over the man who was deciphering it.
From Diary of the Besieged Resident in Paris by Henry Labouchere
