DECODE Synonyms: 71 Similar and Opposite Words

decode

verb

(ˌ)dē-ˈkōd

Definition of decode

as in to decipher

to change (as a secret message) from code into ordinary language the agents worked into the night to decode the intercepted message from the enemy spy

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in to understand

to have a clear idea of I was never able to decode the strange relationship that existed between those two people

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

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.

Recent Examples of decode Ekman’s seven-point system, however useful as a package, leans toward rigidity, turning the face once again into a surface to be decoded. — Cal Revely-Calder, New Yorker, 29 June 2026 In October 2023, the first full word from one of the unopened ancient papyri was decoded with the help of computer technology and advanced AI. — Lianne Kolirin, CNN Money, 26 June 2026 The point is not that these letters decode Williams once and for all. — Literary Hub, 26 June 2026 Some use the technology to get guidance on creating a dating app profile, decode messages from potential partners and draft replies or seek general dating advice. — ABC News, 26 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for decode

Recent Examples of Synonyms for decode

Verb

In 2023, the Vesuvius Challenge made its first award for deciphering the first letters, and the following year, the project awarded the grand prize of $700,000 for producing the first readable text.

— ArsTechnica, ArsTechnica, 30 June 2026
On Thursday, the University of Kentucky announced a new $1 million prize to anyone able to decipher a complete scroll, a feat the researchers once considered impossible, by June next year.

— Claudio Lavanga, NBC news, 26 June 2026

Definition of decipher

Verb

As some participants vow to be crucified in exchange for family members’ recovery from ill health, panata is also understood as a sacrifice made out of love for others in the community.

— H.M.A. Leow, JSTOR Daily, 10 July 2026
The study was conducted to better understand the true prevalence and distribution of alpha-gal IgE, antibodies produced by the body to fight the presence of the sugar molecule alpha-gal.

— Sophie Lindberg, Kansas City Star, 10 July 2026

Definition of understand

Verb

An area known for rough currents The 18-year-old’s body was found in the water just off the shore on the northwestern end of Horn Island, Jackson County Coroner Bruce Lynd said.

— Holly Yan, CNN Money, 11 July 2026
Linnaea’s is known for its pastries, specialty coffees and its tranquil back patio.

— Michael Goldstein, Forbes.com, 11 July 2026

Definition of know

Verb

Hayes was recognized as one of the trailblazing women in cybersecurity and has over a decade of experience in her field.

— Janice Gassam Asare, Forbes.com, 8 July 2026
As of July 2026, 11 of 10,000 saints recognized by the Catholic Church have come from the United States.

— Vivian Wilson, Twin Cities, 8 July 2026

Definition of recognize

Verb

The stadium has been packed, the FIFA World Cup Fan Festival downtown has seen record attendance, and watch parties and other events have spread across the region.

— Amy Wenk, AJC.com, 9 July 2026
The pair even goes on a quasi-date playing beer pong this week with Kendall and Shai, who can see right through Liam’s act.

— Tom Smyth, Vulture, 9 July 2026

Definition of see

Verb

Cooper, who had not watched Power, couldn’t grasp the enormity of the casting at the time, but was excited by the challenge of building Jarita’s origin story.

— Rosy Cordero, Deadline, 3 July 2026
And grasping Muskism is crucial for understanding not just the man, but the world that made him.

— Charlie Warzel, The Atlantic, 3 July 2026

Definition of grasp

Verb

Caparelli-Ruff said the office appreciated working with the County Board to receive bipartisan support for school safety improvements.

— Michelle Mullins, Chicago Tribune, 5 July 2026
In Texas, appreciating the process of patriotism Rodney Ellis will celebrate at picnics around his precinct in Houston with barbecue pork ribs and ice tea, and a heaping helping of worry about the nation's future.

— Susan Bence, NPR, 4 July 2026

Definition of appreciate

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decocts

decode

decoded

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“Decode.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/decode. Accessed 11 Jul. 2026.

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Synonyms of decode

verb

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