decode

verb

de·​code (ˌ)dē-ˈkōd 

decoded; decoding; decodes

transitive verb

1

a

: to convert (something, such as a coded message) into intelligible form

b

: to recognize and interpret (an electronic signal)

2

a

: decipher sense 3a

b

: to discover the underlying meaning of

decode the play's imagery

Did you know?

To decode is to take out of code and put into understandable language. (Its opposite is encode, "to put into coded form".) But dreams may sometimes also be decoded; psychologists often try to decode the images of their patients' dreams so as to understand the emotions behind them. And readers must often decode what a novel or story or poem is telling them, which may require two or three readings. Decipher is often a synonym, though we now use it when talking about reading difficult handwriting.

Synonyms of decode

• decipher

Examples of decode in a Sentence

Readers can easily decode the novel's imagery.

I'm trying to decode the expression on her face.

The box decodes the digital signal for your CD player.

Recent Examples on the Web

These patterns can in principle be detected using the right sensors and then decoded—that is, mapped from electromagnetic current or blood oxygenation levels back into words and concepts. — Rob Toews, Forbes.com, 22 June 2026

Gathering light, decoding data At a high level, the concept is fairly straightforward. — Eric Berger, ArsTechnica, 22 June 2026

Many viewers attempted to decode the phrase, which seemingly allows the cast to avoid getting censored on TV. — Leigh Blickley, Entertainment Weekly, 22 June 2026

Earle also invited followers to decode the mystery in real time, generating massive engagement and UCG — not to mention sales for Reale Actives — in the process. — Danielle Directo-Meston, HollywoodReporter, 20 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1896, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Rhymes for decode

• abode
• anode
• barcode
• bestowed
• boatload
• borrowed
• carload
• caseload
• cathode
• commode
• corrode
• crossroad

Kids Definition

decode

verb

de·​code (ˈ)dē-ˈkōd 

: to change (as a secret message) from code into ordinary language

decoder noun