%construe%

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. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. To put a construction upon; to explain the sense or intention of; to interpret; to understand. [ 1913 Webster ]

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. [ 1913 Webster ]

And to be dull was construed to be good. Pope. [ 1913 Webster ]