explanation

noun

ex·​pla·​na·​tion ˌek-splə-ˈnā-shən 

1

: the act or process of explaining

2

: something that explains

gave no explanation

Synonyms

• clarification
• construction
• elucidation
• exegesis
• explication
• exposition
• illumination
• illustration
• interpretation
• road map

Examples of explanation in a Sentence

The professor's explanation was that the poem is really a parody.

an explanation of photosynthesis that most museum visitors will be able to understand

Recent Examples on the Web

Whisky fans may be familiar with some of these names, but a few of them could use a little explanation. —Jonah Flicker, Robb Report, 10 Feb. 2025

The next day, Senator Chris Murphy, Democrat of Connecticut, offered a meandering explanation on his social media account of how Musk posed a major danger to American democracy and voters. —Lisa Lerer, New York Times, 8 Feb. 2025

In the aftermath, Amira Abu Shoka, a member of Egyptian parliament, demanded an explanation from Sherif Fathy, the minister of tourism and antiquities. —Eli Wizevich, Smithsonian Magazine, 7 Feb. 2025

The plans, handsome blueprints, were spread out on the table and as Recorder Welch read the specifications, Mr. Morgan made the necessary explanations. —Contributed Content, Twin Cities, 7 Feb. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing explanation

• by way of explanation

Kids Definition

explanation

noun

ex·​pla·​na·​tion ˌek-splə-ˈnā-shən 

1

: the act or process of explaining

2

: a statement that makes something clear