from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Construe \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.
[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]