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.

Despite said activity, the tone was contemplative, and moments later, as I was being asked to describe the colors and mood of a Ten of Swords card, I was tapped on the shoulder.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 10, 2026

The term “passive income” doesn’t begin to describe the stress and emotional labor of dealing with damage from short-term renters and cleaning/maintenance fees.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 9, 2026

Its website used to describe it as a "leading UK real estate agency" with "eight branches" and "170 staff".

From BBC • Jun. 9, 2026

Those visitors describe a North Korea unrecognizable from the past, especially its capital, Pyongyang, where Kim and the country’s elite live.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 8, 2026

He couldn’t describe these adventures if he hadn’t lived them.

From "Nim’s Island" by Wendy Orr

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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