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 Jamie Okuma, Pamela Baker, Jontay Kahm, Patricia Michaels, and Lauren Good Day were each tasked with creating five looks each that represented their interpretations of handcraft and couture. Christian Allaire, Vogue, 11 May 2026 The Supreme Court tries to avoid second-guessing state courts' interpretations of their own constitutions. ABC News, 11 May 2026 Much like handball, interpretations seem to change with the wind. Phil Hay, New York Times, 11 May 2026 The original interpretation was relatively straightforward. Scott Travers, Forbes.com, 10 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for interpretation
Recent Examples of Synonyms for interpretation
Noun
  • Professional commentators tended to see these developments in so many local terms—turning, for their explanations, to national histories, cultures and institutions.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 18 May 2026
  • Arthur was taken back to the doctor two additional times in the ensuing weeks and was given various explanations about his condition, including asthma and even anxiety.
    Toria Sheffield, PEOPLE, 17 May 2026
Noun
  • Wear the grey option with blue jeans for a semi-casual look, or dress up the lime green or black version with trousers and heels.
    Mia Huelsbeck, PEOPLE, 16 May 2026
  • Health officials are now investigating whether the outbreak involves the Ebola Zaire strain — the deadliest and most well-known version of the virus — or a different variant, according to the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
    Jasmine Baehr, FOXNews.com, 16 May 2026
Noun
  • Jean-Claude Manuguerra, who heads Pasteur's Environment and Infectious Risk unit, said the remaining variation appeared to reflect natural viral variation and did not seem to affect the characteristics of the virus detected among travelers.
    CBS News, CBS News, 16 May 2026
  • Thousands of other farmers perch in variations of these treehouses, which dot the landscape of central Sri Lanka.
    Diaa Hadid, NPR, 16 May 2026
Noun
  • An illustration showing how a stent can support blood flow in an artery.
    Kerry Breen, CBS News, 16 May 2026
  • Sibley spent nearly a year working on the digital illustrations for the collection.
    Sarah Raza, Chicago Tribune, 15 May 2026
Noun
  • Every brand had its rendition, and their ubiquity was no accident—the best leather sneakers embody timelessness and add understated elegance to any outfit.
    Michael Stefanov, Robb Report, 18 May 2026
  • The actress and singer honored the late actor with a moving rendition of her song of the same title from their 1973 romance drama.
    Escher Walcott, PEOPLE, 18 May 2026
Noun
  • Between takes, Liu did TikTok dances, trying to summon the right energy.
    Emily Nussbaum, New Yorker, 17 May 2026
  • This new modern-day, episodic take is a fun binge-watch with a lot of heart.
    Dana Feldman, Forbes.com, 16 May 2026
Noun
  • People are available to speak with you 24 hours a day, seven days a week in English, Spanish and 200 more languages through translation services.
    Marissa Perlman, CBS News, 13 May 2026
  • Lost in translation The price tag of insurance plans is not the only barrier to being in control of the system.
    Davi Jacobs, Baltimore Sun, 13 May 2026
Noun
  • After a 27-point performance in the first game, Brittney Sykes had 14 points by halftime in the rematch and finished with a career-high 38.
    Steve Galluzzo, Los Angeles Times, 18 May 2026
  • Wild-eyed in a register that ranges from dreamy to terrified to stunned into submission, her performance is the most honestly felt thing here.
    Guy Lodge, Variety, 18 May 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Interpretation.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/interpretation. Accessed 19 May. 2026.

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