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
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
That's just one possible explanation for the slowdown that the pandemic worsened.
—
Jonaki Mehta, NPR, 29 Jan. 2025
Many experts suspect that the hormonal changes of perimenopause are at least part of the explanation, Dr. Edwards says.
—Amy Norton, SELF, 29 Jan. 2025
Instead of an explanation, she was met with accusations.
—Barbara A. Perry, Newsweek, 28 Jan. 2025
First of all, the most plausible explanation for this is that Elon is being Elon.
—Eric Berger, Ars Technica, 28 Jan. 2025
See all Example Sentences for explanation 
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Jonaki Mehta, NPR, 29 Jan. 2025
Many experts suspect that the hormonal changes of perimenopause are at least part of the explanation, Dr. Edwards says.
—Amy Norton, SELF, 29 Jan. 2025
Instead of an explanation, she was met with accusations.
—Barbara A. Perry, Newsweek, 28 Jan. 2025
First of all, the most plausible explanation for this is that Elon is being Elon.
—Eric Berger, Ars Technica, 28 Jan. 2025
See all Example Sentences for explanation
Dictionary Entries Near explanation
Cite this Entry
“Explanation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/explanation. Accessed 3 Feb. 2025.
Copy CitationKids 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
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share