D defs.my
Entry 2 senses Webster, 1913

Construe

/(?; Archaic ?)/ · Con·strue · IPA /kənˈstɹuː/
01 v. t. 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 se…
imp. & p. p. Construed; p. pr. & vb. n. Construing
  1. 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. 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.