Definitions

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.

Watch him describe a crew shooting down Iranian missiles: “It’s so incredible, these guys, these geniuses. … Ding, ding, ding, ding. Missile launch, then psshm, poom!”

From Slate • Jun. 11, 2026

In a report last year, More in Common said "broken" was the most common word Britons used to describe the country.

From BBC • Jun. 11, 2026

“Having almost 100,000 fans, singing your anthem, supporting you, whistling when you’re not doing good…It’s hard to describe something so deep and so intangible.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 10, 2026

It’s like trying to describe a song that exists all at once, without being performed, heard or unfolding.

From Science Daily • Jun. 8, 2026

Nora always knew how to describe things, Jackson had noticed.

From "I Survived the Great Alaska Earthquake, 1964" by Lauren Tarshis

Vocabulary lists containing describe

The Language of Standardized Tests, List 1

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

PARCC: Language of the Test (Grade7)

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Jim Burke's Academic Vocabulary List

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!