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

• interpretation
• illustration
• clarification

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

Skrmetti’s office declined to offer an explanation when asked by The Tennessean. —Vivian Jones, Nashville Tennessean, 9 Oct. 2025

In other words, this explanation is plausible, but limited in its explanatory power, while simultaneously possessing the drawback of bringing up new puzzles. —Big Think, 9 Oct. 2025

There really is no other explanation at this point, and neither is a strong enough reason to keep him around. —Jason Lloyd, New York Times, 9 Oct. 2025

In Monster, Gein’s schizophrenia diagnosis provides an explanation for his crimes. —Elizabeth Yuko, Rolling Stone, 8 Oct. 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