Definition of interpretationnext
1
2
as in version
a presentation of an artistic work (as a piece of music) from a particular point of view a sensitive interpretation of a piece that is a touchstone for violinists

Synonyms & Similar Words

3
as in variation
a distinct treatment of something (as a story or a play) a very Freudian interpretation of The Nutcracker

Synonyms & Similar Words

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 interpretation And while both embraced the glittering possibilities of party-season dressing, their respective interpretations couldn’t have been more different. — Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 24 Oct. 2026 Many are religious texts, including interpretations of the Quran, but others deal with astrology, grammar, and language. — Kang-Chun Cheng, Christian Science Monitor, 24 Oct. 2026 Vampire The Making the Cut star went for a more sexy interpretation of the undead creature, sporting thigh-high boots, fangs and a big black Cher-like wig for her party. — Kate Hogan, PEOPLE, 24 Oct. 2026 Growing population Haredi Jews strictly observe Jewish religious law and often disapprove of liberal interpretations. — Hannah Ridge, The Conversation, 23 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for interpretation
Recent Examples of Synonyms for interpretation
Noun
  • The likelier explanation, Seth said, is that the models have absorbed a great deal of information about how humans describe and respond to pain and are reproducing it.
    — Shae Lake, Fortune, 22 Oct. 2026
  • When two upcoming shows in Chicago were canceled without explanation, Hall released a statement.
    — Jack Denton, Vulture, 22 Oct. 2026
Noun
  • The year before, Milton Reynolds had discovered the pen while visiting Buenos Aires, and rushed home to create his own version, the Reynolds Rocket, which hit stores on October 29, 1945.
    — Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 26 Oct. 2026
  • The more self-consciously operatic versions aren’t necessarily closer to the composer’s intentions.
    — Adam Gopnik, New Yorker, 26 Oct. 2026
Noun
  • Beyond being universally flattering and easy to maintain, there are many variations to choose from.
    — Audrey Noble, Vogue, 27 Oct. 2026
  • In one instance, a simple game of catch later evolved into variations that included multiple objects, timing rules, and even juggling.
    — Will McCurdy, PC Magazine, 26 Oct. 2026
Noun
  • IllustratorMagic generates the text, illustrations, and page layouts, producing a complete book rather than separate images that require manual assembly.
    — StackCommerce Team, PC Magazine, 25 Oct. 2026
  • An illustration shows the life-size bronze sculpture of dueling film critics Gene Siskel, left, and Roger Ebert that will soon be unveiled at the One Two Pru office complex near Millennium Park and The Magnificent Mile.
    — Brian J. Rogal, Chicago Tribune, 22 Oct. 2026
Noun
  • And, yes, this rendition represented a lyrical alteration by the Tonji that departed from the traditional wording of the French national anthem.
    — Armando Salguero OutKick, FOXNews.com, 25 Oct. 2026
  • Nike has released countless premium renditions of its beloved Air Max 95 sneaker over its three decades-plus on the market, but few are as luxurious as the aptly named Air Max 95 Lux.
    — Riley Jones, Footwear News, 24 Oct. 2026
Noun
  • Weaving every movement together are barely perceptible particles that make your ears blink and double-take—bubbles, dolphin gurgles, memory chips fidgeting, sprites hiccuping.
    — Kieran Press-Reynolds, Pitchfork, 26 Oct. 2026
  • Our take is that every story in the Weekly World News is true.
    — Bethy Squires, Vulture, 24 Oct. 2026
Noun
  • There are also exceptions for students with disabilities who have an Individualized Education Program (IEP) and English language learners who use their phone as a translation tool.
    — Madeleine Wright, CBS News, 27 Oct. 2026
  • Short translations and essays have appeared in Two Lines Journal, Berlin Quarterly, Los Angeles Review of Books, FENCE, and elsewhere.
    — Léo Keler, The Dial, 27 Oct. 2026
Noun
  • This year, the multiplatinum band celebrates its 50th anniversary and has scheduled performances throughout California for the remainder of the year.
    — Andrea Flores, Los Angeles Times, 22 Oct. 2026
  • SpaceX shares jumped nearly 8% on Wednesday, their best single-session performance since August.
    — Morgan Chittum, Fortune, 22 Oct. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Interpretation.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/interpretation. Accessed 28 Oct. 2026.

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