Con*strue (?; Archaic ?), v. t. [imp & p. p. Construed (#); p. pr & vb. n. Construing (#).] [L. construere: cf. F. construire. See Construct.]
1.
To apply the rules of syntax to (a sentence or clause) so as to exhibit the structure, arrangement, or connection of, or to discover the sense; to explain the construction of; to interpret; to translate.
2.
To put a construction upon; to explain the sense or intention of; to interpret; to understand.
Thus we are put to construe and paraphrase our own words to free ourselves either from the ignorance or malice of our enemies.
Bp. Stilingfleet.
And to be dull was construed to be good.
Pope.
© Webster 1913.