Read - Wikipedia-style Article
Read
Definition
Read is a verb and a noun. As a verb, it refers to the act of interpreting written or printed text. As a noun, it describes something that is read, such as a book, article, or other written material.
Parts of Speech
Pronunciation
American English
- Present Tense IPA Pronunciation: /riːd/
- Past Tense IPA Pronunciation: /rɛd/
- Respelling (Present): REED
- Respelling (Past): RED
British English
- Present Tense IPA Pronunciation: /riːd/
- Past Tense IPA Pronunciation: /rɛd/
- Respelling (Present): REED
- Respelling (Past): RED
Etymology
The word "read" originates from the Old English "rædan," meaning "to advise, explain, or interpret." It is derived from Proto-Germanic "rēdaną" and related to the Old High German "rātan," meaning "to advise."
Derivatives
- Readable (adjective)
- Reader (noun)
- Reread (verb)
- Misread (verb)
- Reading (noun/verb)
Synonyms
Antonyms
Usage
The term "read" is used in everyday language to describe the action of understanding written content. Examples include "I love to read novels" (verb) and "This book is a great read" (noun).
Related Terms
- Text: Written or printed words.
- Comprehension: The ability to understand text.
- Literature: Written works of artistic or academic value.
Detailed Definitions
Verb
- To interpret written or printed material: Refers to the act of understanding text.
- Example: "She reads the newspaper every morning."
- To discern meaning from symbols or signs: Refers to understanding information from non-textual cues.
- Example: "He can read body language well."
- To study or examine carefully: Refers to focused reading for comprehension or learning.
- Example: "The professor asked them to read the chapter thoroughly."
Noun
- A book, article, or other material meant to be read: Refers to something written or printed for an audience.
- Example: "This mystery novel is an engaging read."
- The act of reading: Refers to the process or activity of reading.
- Example: "He settled down for a quiet read by the fire."