ə̇n.ˈtərprə̇t, ÷-pə̇t, -tə̄p-, -təip-, usu -ə̇d.+V verb
( -ed/-ing/-s )
Etymology: Middle English interpreten, from Middle French & Latin; Middle French interpreter, from Latin interpretari, from interpret-, interpres broker, negotiator, expounder, interpreter, from inter- + -pret-, -pres (probably akin to Latin pretium value, price) — more at price
transitive verb
1. : to explain or tell the meaning of : translate into intelligible or familiar language or terms : expound , elucidate , translate
Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us — Mt. 1:23 (Authorized Version)
interpret dreams
can only interpret his conduct as caused by fear
2. : to understand and appreciate in the light of individual belief, judgment, interest, or circumstance : construe
interpret a law
interpret a contract
the gift was naturally interpreted as a bribe
interpret the signs of a coming storm
3. : to apprehend and represent by means of art : show by illustrative representation : bring (a score or script) to active realization by performance
an actor interprets a role
interpret a song
intransitive verb
: to act as an interpreter : translate