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.

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

But few would describe this year’s ragtag selection of new musicals as robust.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 8, 2026

He went on to describe avoiding debris in the road and said at the point when the vehicle started going sideways, he realised it was a red BMW and it "made me even more scared".

From BBC • Jun. 8, 2026

New York's official emergency notification system did not describe the incident but said people should avoid the area and "expect traffic delays, road closures, mass transit disruptions & emergency personnel near Penn Station."

From Barron's • Jun. 8, 2026

“Want to go to Birdie’s? My mom and her are…” I trail off, not sure how to describe it.

From "The Wrong Way Home" by Kate O’Shaughnessy

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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