explanation

noun

ex·​pla·​na·​tion ˌek-splə-ˈnā-shən How to pronounce explanation (audio)
1
: the act or process of explaining
2
: something that explains
gave no explanation

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
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.
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 See All Example Sentences for explanation

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of explanation was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Explanation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/explanation. Accessed 27 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

explanation

noun
ex·​pla·​na·​tion ˌek-splə-ˈnā-shən How to pronounce explanation (audio)
1
: the act or process of explaining
2
: a statement that makes something clear

More from Merriam-Webster on explanation

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