interpretation

noun

in·​ter·​pre·​ta·​tion in-ˌtər-prə-ˈtā-shən How to pronounce interpretation (audio)
-pə-
Synonyms of interpretation
1
: the act or the result of interpreting : explanation
2
: a particular adaptation or version of a work, method, or style
3
: a teaching technique that combines factual with stimulating explanatory information
natural history interpretation program
interpretational
in-ˌtər-prə-ˈtā-sh(ə-)nəl How to pronounce interpretation (audio)
-pə-
adjective
interpretative
in-ˈtər-prə-ˌtā-tiv How to pronounce interpretation (audio)
also -prə-tə-tiv
adjective
interpretatively adverb
interpretive
in-ˈtər-prə-tiv How to pronounce interpretation (audio)
-pə-
adjective
interpretively adverb

Synonyms of interpretation

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Examples of interpretation in a Sentence

a literal interpretation of the law The truth will only be found by careful interpretation of the evidence. His remarks need further interpretation. an actor's interpretation of the role of Hamlet
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Wilson’s 2017 interpretation of the 2,800-year-old poem — the first major English translation published by a woman — is widely considered a faithful, top-notch rendition, particularly for readers looking for an accessible take on Homer’s work. — Emily St. Martin, Los Angeles Times, 1 Sep. 2026 With all eyes around the world on Iran’s next steps, amid questions over whether the regime will fall or survive, Gharaei says the ultimate interpretation of the film lies with the spectator. — Melanie Goodfellow, Deadline, 1 Sep. 2026 Under the Taliban’s draconian interpretation of sharia, watching movies, playing chess, singing, and playing or listening to music are all banned. — The Week Us, TheWeek, 31 Aug. 2026 Under certain interpretations of the 1963 rule, courts are not allowed to weigh whether a merger might make competition stronger overall. — Shubha Ghosh, Fortune, 31 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for interpretation

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of interpretation was in the 14th century

Phrases Containing interpretation

Rhymes for interpretation

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Browse Nearby Words

interpretate
interpretation
interpretation clause
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Interpretation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/interpretation. Accessed 2 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

interpretation

noun
in·​ter·​pre·​ta·​tion in-ˌtər-prə-ˈtā-shən How to pronounce interpretation (audio)
1
: the act or the result of interpreting : explanation
2
: an instance of artistic interpretation in performance or adaptation
interpretative
-ˈtər-prə-ˌtāt-iv How to pronounce interpretation (audio)
adjective
interpretatively adverb

Medical Definition

interpretation

noun
in·​ter·​pre·​ta·​tion in-ˌtər-prə-ˈtā-shən, -pə- How to pronounce interpretation (audio)
: the act or result of giving an explanation of something
interpretation of the symptoms of disease
especially : an explanation in understandable terms to a patient in psychotherapy of the deeper meaning according to psychological theory of the material related and the behavior exhibited by the patient during treatment
interpret
in-ˈtər-prət, -pət How to pronounce interpretation (audio)
transitive verb
interpretive
-prət-iv, -pət- How to pronounce interpretation (audio)
adjective
or interpretative
-prə-ˌtāt-iv How to pronounce interpretation (audio) -prət-ət-iv How to pronounce interpretation (audio)

Legal Definition

interpretation

noun
in·​ter·​pre·​ta·​tion in-ˌtər-prə-ˈtā-shən How to pronounce interpretation (audio)
: the act or result of interpreting compare construction
interpretative
in-ˈtər-prə-ˌtā-tiv, -tə-tiv How to pronounce interpretation (audio)
adjective
interpretive
in-ˈtər-prə-tiv How to pronounce interpretation (audio)
adjective
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