explanation

ex-pla-na-tion · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A statement or account that makes something clear or provides reasons for it.

  2. 2.

    The process or act of explaining something.

Forms

plural: explanations

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    By way of explanation — As a means of explaining something.
  • •
    In explanation of — To explain or justify something.
  • •
    Owe someone an explanation — To be obligated to explain one's actions.

Related words

Antonyms: confusion, obfuscation
See also: explain, explanations, explanatory
Synonyms: clarification, description, elucidation, interpretation

Etymology

From Latin explanatio, from explanare meaning "to make plain, make clear," from ex- meaning "out" and planus meaning "flat, plain."