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Definition of interpretive

interpretive

/ɪnˈtɜːr.prə.tɪv/
in · ter · pre · tive
Adverb:interpretively
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interpretive Lexical Profile

interpretive Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Relating to or providing an explanation, analysis, or understanding of the meaning of something.

Example

"The national park features an interpretive center with interactive exhibits about the local ecosystem."

2

Characterized by a personal or artistic rendering of a work, emotion, or concept, especially in dance, music, or drama.

Example

"The choreographer is famous for her expressive, interpretive dance routines that convey complex human emotions."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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Word Nuance & Usage

"Interpretive" and "interpretative" are synonymous, though "interpretive" is considerably more common in American English, while "interpretative" remains somewhat more frequent in British academic writing.

• Nearby Words

interpretational
interpretative
interpreter
interpretive
interpretively
interprovincial
interracial

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the late 17th century from the verb "interpret" (ultimately from Latin "interpretari", meaning to explain or translate) and the adjective-forming suffix "-ive", or as a shortened variant of "interpretative".

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Interpretive. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/interpretive
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