Definition of: read

(rēd) v. read (red), read·ing (rē′ding) v.t.
1. To apprehend the meaning of (a book, writing, etc.) by perceiving the form and relation of the printed or written characters.
2. To utter aloud (something printed or written).
3. To understand the significance of as if by reading: to read the sky.
4. To apprehend the meaning of something printed or written in (a foreign language).
5. To make a study of; also, to obtain knowledge of: to read law.
6. To discover the true nature of (a person, character, etc.) by observation or scrutiny.
7. To interpret (something read) in a specified manner.
8. To take as the meaning of something read.
9. To have or exhibit as the wording: The passage reads “principal,” not “principle.”
10. To indicate or register: The meter reads zero.
11. To bring in to a specified condition by reading: I read her to sleep.
—v.i.
12. To apprehend the characters of a book, musical score, etc.
13. To utter aloud the words or contents of a book, etc.
14. To gain information by reading: with of or about.
15. To learn by means of books; study.
16. To have a specified wording: The contract reads as follows.
17. To admit of being read in a specified manner.
18. To give a public reading or recital.
—to read between the lines To perceive or infer what is not expressed or obvious, as a hidden or true meaning, implication, or motive.
—to read into To discern (implicit meanings or implications) in a statement or position: Don′t read anything into my decision not to run for office.
—to read out To expel from a religious body, political party, etc., by proclamation or concerted action.
—to read up (or up on) To learn by reading.
—adjective (red) Informed by books or reading; acquainted with books or literature: well read.
—noun (rēd) Colloq. A reading; a period spent in reading. [OE rædan advise, read]