Definition of decipher

The word "decipher" has a rich history dating back to the 14th century. It originated from the Latin phrase "deciperare," which means "to loosen or untie." This phrase was used to describe the process of unraveling or unraveling a knot, but also referred to the act of interpreting or solving a cryptic message. In Old French, the phrase "deschiper" was used to translate "deciperare," and it eventually entered the English language as "decipher." Initially, the word referred specifically to the act of decoding a cryptogram or deciphering a secret message. Over time, the meaning of "decipher" expanded to include any process of interpreting or understanding a complex or obscure text, symbol, or code. Today, "decipher" is used in a wide range of contexts, from cryptography and coding to literary analysis and everyday problem-solving. Despite its evolution, the word retains its roots in the idea of "loosening" or "untangling" a mystery or secret.