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Decipherable Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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decipherable

[dɪˈsaɪfərəbəl ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

in cryptography

Capable of being decoded or understood, often referring to a message or information that can be interpreted.

Synonyms

decodable, interpretable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
decipherable

Appropriate when discussing something that can be understood or made sense of, such as handwriting, codes, or messages.

  • Despite the doctor's messy handwriting, the prescription was decipherable.
  • The ancient script was complex but ultimately decipherable.
decodable

Used mainly in contexts related to codes, ciphers, or information that can be translated from one form to another.

  • The encrypted message was easily decodable with the right key.
  • The data is decodable using advanced software.
interpretable

Refers to data, results, or text that can be analyzed and understood, often used in technical or academic contexts.

  • The survey results are interpretable by looking at demographic information.
  • The complex graph is interpretable after a thorough analysis.

Examples of usage

  • The encrypted message was decipherable only by using a special key.
  • The handwriting was so messy that it was barely decipherable.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In cryptography, decipherable texts are crucial for understanding secure communication.
  • Linguists analyze ancient scripts to determine if they are decipherable, revealing lost languages.
  • Artificial intelligence is increasingly being trained to make sense of previously undecipherable patterns in data.

Literature

  • Many classic works rely on decipherable codes and symbols for deeper meaning, inviting readers to uncover hidden messages.
  • Authors often play with language to create puzzles within their texts, prompting audiences to find the meaning.
  • Decipherable texts can provide insights into the author's intent, making literature richer and more engaging.

Technology

  • With advancements in technology, even very complex codes are becoming increasingly decipherable through software tools.
  • Data encryption is a field focused on making information decipherable only to those who are authorized, ensuring privacy.
  • Deciphering in tech often involves using algorithms that can translate or interpret information quickly and accurately.

History

  • Deciphering historical codes has aided archaeologists in understanding ancient cultures and their communications.
  • The Rosetta Stone was pivotal in making Egyptian hieroglyphs decipherable, revealing insights into a lost civilization.
  • World War II saw codebreakers deciphering enemy messages, changing the course of history.

Origin of 'decipherable'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from Latin 'decipherare', meaning to unlock or interpret.
  • It combines 'de-' (indicating removal) and 'cipher' (meaning code), suggesting the action of taking away confusion from a coded message.
  • The '-able' suffix implies that it can be done, so 'decipherable' means something that can be decoded.

The word 'decipherable' originated from the combination of 'de-' meaning 'completely' and 'cipher' meaning 'code'. It first appeared in the early 19th century. The concept of deciphering messages has been essential in the field of cryptography and intelligence gathering throughout history.

See also: decipherer, deciphering, decipherment.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #36,002, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.