read over

In real, traceable use. Part of the curated seed collection; community review is coming.

Sense 1

Meaning · English

To read (a document, book, etc.) through, though not necessarily thoroughly.

Where it’s used: Used American English
Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

In superstitious belief, to read from the Bible out loud physically over something so as to confer some magical relief or power.

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “read over” mean?

To read (a document, book, etc.) through, though not necessarily thoroughly.

Is “read over” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.