translate

UK: trænzˈleɪt | US: trænzˈleɪt

Definition
  1. vt. to express the meaning of words or text in another language

  2. vt. to convert something from one form or medium into another

  3. vi. to be capable of being translated

Structure
trans <across>late <carry, bring>
Etymology

The word "translate" originates from Latin translatus, the past participle of transferre ("to carry across"). It combines trans- (meaning "across") and -late (from latus, the irregular past participle of ferre, meaning "to carry"). The term evolved through Old French translater before entering Middle English, retaining its core idea of "carrying meaning across" languages or forms. This reflects the physical metaphor of moving content between systems, much like transporting an object.

Examples
  1. She was hired to translate the document from French to English.

  2. The app can instantly translate spoken words into multiple languages.

  3. His skills allow him to translate complex ideas into simple terms.

  4. The book was poorly translated, losing much of its original nuance.

  5. Poetry is often difficult to translate without sacrificing rhythm or meaning.