Describe: meaning, definitions and examples

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describe

[ dɪˈskraɪb ]

^{Context #1}

in language

To give an account of something in words.

Synonyms

depict, narrate, portray

Examples of usage

He described the scene in great detail.
Can you describe what you saw?
She described the taste of the food as delicious.

^{Context #2}

in appearance

To represent or give an account of in words.

Synonyms

characterize, depict, illustrate

Examples of usage

The painting describes a beautiful landscape.
The novel describes the protagonist's journey.
The document describes the process step by step.

^{Context #3}

in character

To embody or exemplify in essence.

Synonyms

embody, exemplify, personify

Examples of usage

His actions describe his true nature.
The organization's values describe its mission.

Translations

Translations of the word "describe" in other languages:

🇵🇹 descrever

🇮🇳 वर्णन करना (varṇan karnā)

🇩🇪 beschreiben

🇮🇩 menggambarkan

🇺🇦 описувати

🇵🇱 opisywać

🇯🇵 描写する (びょうしゃする, byōsha suru)

🇫🇷 décrire

🇪🇸 describir

🇹🇷 tanımlamak

🇰🇷 묘사하다 (myosahada)

🇸🇦 وصف (wasf)

🇨🇿 popisovat

🇸🇰 opisovať

🇨🇳 描述 (miáoshù)

🇸🇮 opisati

🇮🇸 lýsa

🇰🇿 сипаттау (sıpattaý)

🇬🇪 აღწერა (aghtsera)

🇦🇿 təsvir etmək

🇲🇽 describir

Word origin

The word 'describe' originated from the Latin word 'describere', which means 'to write down'. Over time, it evolved to encompass not just writing, but also verbal accounts and representations. The concept of describing has been essential in communication and expression, allowing individuals to convey experiences, appearances, and characteristics to others in a detailed manner.