Definition of interpret verb in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

INTERPRET definition: 1. to decide what the meaning of something is: 2. to express your own ideas about the intended…. Learn more.

If you interpret something in a particular way, you decide that this is its meaning or significance. The judge quite rightly says that he has to interpret the law as it's been passed. [VERB noun] If you interpret what someone is saying, you translate it immediately into another language.

interpret (third-person singular simple present interprets, present participle interpreting, simple past and past participle interpreted) To decode the meaning of a topic and then act, whether to continue researching the topic, follow through, act in opposition, or further the understanding through sharing an interpretation.

1. to give or provide the meaning of; explain; elucidate: to interpret a parable. 2. to construe or understand in a particular way: to interpret a reply as favorable. 3. to translate orally. 4. to bring out the meaning of (a dramatic work, music, etc.) by performance or execution.

INTERPRET definition: to give or provide the meaning of; explain; explicate; elucidate. See examples of interpret used in a sentence.

To show the purport of; develop or make clear by representation: as, to interpret a drama or a character by action on the stage. To construe; attribute a given meaning to: as, the company interpreted his silence unfavorably.