read
UK: riːd | US: riːd
v. to look at and understand written or printed words
v. to speak written or printed words aloud
v. to interpret or predict (e.g., "read the weather")
n. an act or period of reading
The word "read" traces back to Old English rǣdan, meaning "to advise, interpret, or explain." Its Germanic root rēdaną carried broader senses of "to counsel" or "to guess," reflecting the interpretive nature of reading. Over time, the meaning narrowed to focus on decoding written text, while retaining connotations of interpretation (e.g., "read between the lines"). The spelling stabilized in Middle English, though pronunciation shifted (originally closer to "raid").
She loves to read novels in her free time.
The teacher asked the student to read the passage aloud.
Can you read this handwriting? It’s very messy.
He tried to read her expression but couldn’t tell if she was upset.
I’m going to have a quiet read by the fireplace tonight.