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

In the weeks since its debut, the company’s stock has been extremely volatile — skyrocketing to highs and plunging to lows from day to day, sometimes without any apparent explanation. —Rocio Fabbro, Quartz, 31 May 2024

If the explanation for why the confidence levels of the affluent grew was clearly identifiable, the reason why young people did remains a mystery. —Paolo Confino, Fortune, 29 May 2024

But ultimately, the team determined the most likely explanation was that Magellan had detected solidified lava from volcanic activity. —Will Sullivan, Smithsonian Magazine, 29 May 2024

The justice has offered no explanation for that flag, which The Times reported on last week. —Jodi Kantor, New York Times, 28 May 2024

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