Past tense of decipher; converted from code into ordinary language or made sense of something difficult to understand.
From 'de-' (reverse) plus 'cipher' from Arabic 'sifr' (zero, empty). Originally meant to convert from numerical code, later extended to any process of making meaning from obscure or encoded information.
The Arabic origin connects to the introduction of the zero concept to Europe! The same mathematical innovations that gave us modern numerals also provided the metaphorical framework for understanding how meaning can be hidden and revealed through symbolic systems.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.