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.
The movement occurred without a clear explanation, such as an injury to a star player. Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 22 Nov. 2024 Another possible explanation is that the oarfish got stuck in a current and couldn’t go back down into deeper waters. Karen Garcia, Los Angeles Times, 21 Nov. 2024 But none of these factors offer an adequate explanation for the surprising heat in 2023. Matt Robison, Newsweek, 21 Nov. 2024 Discounting by the automakers hoping to accelerating the pace of EV adoption is part of the explanation for the lower prices. Ed Garsten, Forbes, 20 Nov. 2024 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

Dictionary Entries Near explanation

Cite this Entry

“Explanation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/explanation. Accessed 8 Dec. 2024.

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

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!