explanation

noun

ex·​pla·​na·​tion ˌek-splə-ˈnā-shən 

1

: the act or process of explaining

declined without any explanation

The company offered little by way of explanation for the problems. [=as a way of explaining why there were problems]

2

: something that explains

The professor's explanation was that the poem was really a parody.

Synonyms of explanation

• 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

After audiences lashed out on social media at Rita Ora's Thanksgiving Day Parade set in 2018, singer John Legend posted an explanation as to why stars don't actually sing while riding on floats. —Joey Nolfi, Entertainment Weekly, 27 Nov. 2025

While no official cause has been determined, hazardous electrical wiring and unattended open flames used for cooking or heat were deemed to have been the most plausible explanation at the time. —Bella Webb, Vogue, 27 Nov. 2025

Additionally, this explanation offers no differences for the abundance and size of the maria that appear on the near side versus the far side. —Big Think, 26 Nov. 2025

Many in Lebanon are still waiting for an explanation as to its cause and, in early August, Leo sent a message to a vigil marking five years since the blast. —Christopher Lamb, CNN Money, 26 Nov. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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