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.

In his short story “Intimacy,” Raymond Carver uses the metaphor of “dead leaves” to describe the unresolved wounds between the narrator and his ex-wife.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 3, 2026

In places like Bille, which the BBC visited last week, residents describe once-rich fishing grounds turning toxic and unusable.

From BBC • Jun. 3, 2026

Those close to Fujimori describe her as persistent, disciplined and relentless.

From Barron's • Jun. 3, 2026

Together, these changes created what researchers describe as a neural "pre-decision state."

From Science Daily • Jun. 2, 2026

I only read his lips and the crude hand gesture that I will not describe.

From "The Many Assassinations of Samir, the Seller of Dreams" by Daniel Nayeri

Vocabulary lists containing describe

The Language of Standardized Tests, List 1

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PARCC: Language of the Test (Grade7)

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Jim Burke's Academic Vocabulary List

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