Definition

The process of figuring out or understanding something that is difficult to read or understand, especially when it involves translating or interpreting old or unknown languages.

Example

The decipherment of the ancient script took many years of study and research.

Conversation

Have you heard about the recent decipherment of that ancient manuscript?

Yeah, it's fascinating how they figured it out!

I can't believe they managed to make sense of those symbols after so long.

It really shows how important the study of history is for understanding our past.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Decipherment is formed from "de-" (meaning down from or away) and "cipher" (from Old French *cifre*, meaning a code or a figure). The suffix "-ment" (meaning the action or result of) indicates the process of decoding or interpreting a code. Thus, decipherment refers to the action of interpreting or making sense of a coded message.

Memory Tip

Think of 'decoding' something 'away' from its original 'code' — that's what decipherment means.

Visually Confused Words