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Definition of decipher verb in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.
To read or interpret (ambiguous, obscure, or illegible matter). American Heritage. To translate (a message in cipher or code) into ordinary, understandable language; decode. Webster's New World. Similar definitions. To make out the meaning of (ancient inscriptions, illegible writing, etc.) Webster's New World.
1. to make out the meaning of (something obscure or difficult to read or understand): I couldn't decipher his handwriting. 2. to interpret by the use of a key, as something written in cipher: to decipher a secret message. 3. Obs. to depict; portray. [1520–30; Middle French déchiffrer] de•ci′pher•a•ble, adj. de•ci`pher•a•bil′i•ty, n.
