διερμηνευτής
diermēneutḗs
G1328 noun
SILEX Entry
Definition
A person who interprets or explains language, especially someone who renders spoken or written content from one language into another; also, one who clarifies obscure sayings or passages, or conveys meaning so others may understand. The term generally refers to a linguistic or explanatory mediator, not limited strictly to translation of languages but also broader interpretation or elucidation.
Semantic Range
interpreter, translator, explainer, one who expounds or clarifies language or content, linguistic mediator, commentator
Root / Etymology
Formed from the verb διερμηνεύω ('to interpret, explain, translate') with the agent noun suffix -τής, denoting a person who performs the action. Cognate with ἑρμηνεύω ('to interpret, translate'), ultimately linked to the name Ἑρμῆς (Hermes), the messenger god associated with interpretation and communication. The prefix διὰ- emphasizes thoroughness or across/through.
Historical & Contextual Notes
In classical and Hellenistic literature, διερμηνευτής refers both to a translator—someone facilitating understanding between speakers of different languages—and generally to anyone who elucidates difficult material, such as obscure texts or messages. Within the Septuagint and Jewish-Greek literature, the term is commonly used for those translating between Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek in synagogue or communal settings. In the New Testament period, the role could denote a person who translates speech (such as interpreting foreign tongues or prophecies) or explains obscure language, highlighting the need for clarity within multilingual communities. English translations frequently render it 'interpreter,' but the range includes both literal translation and broader explanation or explication. In contrast to the more general ἑρμηνευτής, διερμηνευτής may emphasize the act of thorough, possibly multi-lingual or comprehensive, interpretation.
Original Strong's Gloss (1890)
from διερμηνεύω; an explainer:--interpreter.
Root Family
διερμηνευτής (diermēneutēs) — interpreter, translator, explainer
Word Forms
1 distinct form
| SIDANCE | Surface | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 | Occurrences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G1328-01 |
διερμηνευτής | diermeneutes | N NOM M SG |
interpreter | interpreter | interpreter | 1 |
Occurrences in Scripture
1 occurrence
| SIDANCE | Reference | Word | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G1328-01 |
1 Corinthians 14:28 | διερμηνευτής | diermeneutes | N NOM M SG |
interpreter | interpreter | interpreter |