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

After a brief explanation of the challenge and its purpose, the group will hike in Lyonia Preserve and submit photos that will be used to document the biodiversity of Volusia County. —Joe Rassel, The Orlando Sentinel, 23 Apr. 2025

Tariff rates have been altered without any clear explanation for the changes. —Robert Faturechi, ProPublica, 22 Apr. 2025

The company didn’t offer a clear explanation, but noted that much has changed since Google first announced its plan to phase out cookies in 2019. —Michael Kan, PC Magazine, 22 Apr. 2025

The vehicle was found upright near the carrier’s elevator 3, and immediately had historians scrambling for explanations. —Mark Price, Miami Herald, 21 Apr. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing explanation

• by way of explanation

Rhymes for explanation

• abdication
• aberration
• abjuration
• abnegation
• abrogation
• acceptation
• acclamation
• acclimation
• accusation
• activation
• actuation
• acylation

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