describe

[dih-skrahyb] / dɪˈskraɪb /

VERB

explain in speech, writing

Synonyms

STRONGEST

call characterize chronicle construe define depict detail express illustrate interpret label name outline portray recount report represent specify tell term

STRONG

communicate delineate distinguish draw elucidate epitomize exemplify explicate expound illuminate image impart limn narrate paint particularize picture recite rehearse relate sketch state trace transmit

WEAK

convey image make apparent make clear make sense of make vivid mark out write up

Antonyms

STRONGEST

conceal confuse distort hide ignore listen misunderstand suppress

STRONG

cloud complicate mystify obscure

WEAK

misrepresent mix up

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Buttery says there are some we probably recognise the names of but probably couldn't describe in detail and wouldn't really cook any more - like spotted dick.

From BBC • Apr. 17, 2026

Burden wasn’t married to a gambler, and she does not use “financial infidelity” to describe what happened to her.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 17, 2026

The documents describe an elaborate hoax in which the defendants allegedly created fake companies and fraudulent email accounts and driver’s licenses to help fool lenders into loaning them huge sums of money.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 16, 2026

Social psychologists describe this phenomenon as “post hoc” or “motivated reasoning.”

From Salon • Apr. 16, 2026

By that she meant reddish, although a person who was accustomed to talking about hair would be more likely to describe it as a rich auburn.

From "The Hidden Gallery" by Maryrose Wood

Vocabulary lists containing describe

PARCC: Language of the Test (Grade7)

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The Language of Standardized Tests, List 1

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Jim Burke's Academic Vocabulary List

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