describe
UK: dɪˈskraɪb | US: dɪˈskraɪb
vt. to give a detailed account or representation of something in words
vt. to draw or trace the outline of something
describe = de<down, thoroughly> + scribe<write>
- de: A Latin prefix meaning "down" or "thoroughly," often used to indicate completion or intensity.
- scribe: From Latin scribere ("to write"), retained in English as a root meaning "writing" or "marking."
Etymology Origin:
The word "describe" originates from Latin describere, combining de- (thoroughly) and scribere (to write). It initially referred to the act of writing something down in detail, later expanding to include verbal or visual representation. The logic reflects a progression from literal writing to abstract depiction.
The witness was asked to describe the suspect’s appearance.
The author vividly describes the landscape in her novel.
Can you describe how the machine works?
The diagram describes the process step by step.
He struggled to describe his emotions after the event.