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decipher

dee-SY-fer /dɪˈsaɪfər/

verbB2GRESATTOEFLIELTS

neutralformal

To succeed in understanding, interpreting, or identifying something; to convert (a text written in code, or a coded signal) into normal language.

Decipher implies overcoming a challenge to understanding, whether it's a complex code, illegible handwriting, or a difficult concept. It's about revealing meaning that was obscured.

The story behind the word. The word 'decipher' comes from the Old French 'decifrer,' which means 'to undo a cipher.' The 'de-' prefix means 'undo' or 'reverse,' and 'cifre' (which gives us 'cipher') referred to a secret way of writing. So, to decipher is literally to 'un-cipher' a message, revealing its hidden meaning. It entered English in the late 16th century, just as cryptography was becoming more sophisticated.

Word relationships

decode: Often specifically refers to breaking a code or cipher.
interpret: To explain the meaning of (information, words, or actions).
unravel: To undo twisted, knitted, or woven threads; to investigate and solve or explain (something complicated or puzzling).

encode: To convert (information or an instruction) into a particular form.
encrypt: To convert (information or data) into a cipher or code, especially to prevent unauthorized access.

Word family

decipherable (adjective): Able to be deciphered
decipherment (noun): The act or process of deciphering

Collocations

decipher a code
decipher a message
decipher handwriting
decipher meaning
decipher ancient texts

Example sentences

"It took the team of experts several days to decipher the ancient scroll, revealing a lost language." The cryptographers worked tirelessly to decipher the enemy's coded messages.
"Her doctor tried to decipher the scribbled notes from the previous consultation, but they were almost illegible." I struggled to decipher his messy handwriting.
"Researchers are attempting to decipher the genetic code of the newly discovered virus to develop a vaccine." Scientists are trying to decipher the complex patterns of bird migration.

Memory hook

To 'DE-CIPHER' is to take something that's a CIPHER (a code) and DE-code it. DE-code the CIPHER.

When not to use

Do not use 'decipher' for simply reading clear text or easily understanding something. It implies a process of breaking a code or solving a puzzle.

Fun facts

The word 'cipher' originally meant 'zero' in Arabic ('sifr'), then came to mean any numeral, and eventually a secret code, perhaps because zero was seen as a 'secret' or 'empty' number.