read

[riːd]

read Definition

• 1. look at and comprehend the meaning of (written or printed matter) by mentally interpreting the characters or symbols of which it is composed
• 2. to utter aloud written or printed words that one is perusing
• 3. to interpret or understand the meaning of (a gesture, remark, or mood)

Using read: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "read" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  I read a book every week.

• Example

  She read the letter out loud.

• Example

  He could read the disappointment on her face.

• Example

  I can't read your handwriting.

read Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for read

• peruse
• study
• scan
• examine
• skim

Antonyms for read

• write
• ignore

Phrases with read

• read between the lines

  to infer a meaning that is not stated explicitly

  Example

  She didn't say it directly, but I could read between the lines and tell she was unhappy.

• read someone's mind

  to know what someone is thinking without them saying anything

  Example

  I don't know how you do it, but you always seem to be able to read my mind.

• read up on

  to study or research a particular subject in depth

  Example

  Before the interview, I made sure to read up on the company's history and mission.

Origins of read

from Old English 'rǣdan', meaning 'advise, interpret'

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Summary: read in Brief

To 'read' [riːd] means to comprehend written or printed matter, to utter aloud written or printed words, or to interpret the meaning of something. It can also refer to understanding nonverbal cues. Synonyms include 'peruse,' 'study,' and 'scan.' Phrases like 'read between the lines' and 'read someone's mind' denote inferring meaning, while 'read up on' means to research a topic in depth.