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
When he entered the boy's room Floyd was lying flat on his back, staring fixedly at Miss Shellington, who was deciphering the letter for him.
From From the Valley of the Missing by Grace Miller White
It seemed to me that I was deciphering these letters with absolute accuracy.
From The Four Corners of the World by A. E. W. (Alfred Edward Woodley) Mason
