expound

verb

ex·​pound ik-ˈspau̇nd 

expounded; expounding; expounds

transitive verb

1

a

: to set forth : state

b

: to defend with argument

2

: to explain by setting forth in careful and often elaborate detail

expound a law

intransitive verb

: to make a statement : comment

expounder noun

Synonyms

• express
• voice
• give

Choose the Right Synonym for expound

explain, expound, explicate, elucidate, interpret mean to make something clear or understandable.

explain implies a making plain or intelligible what is not immediately obvious or entirely known.

explain the rules

expound implies a careful often elaborate explanation.

expounding a scientific theory

explicate adds the idea of a developed or detailed analysis.

explicate a poem

elucidate stresses the throwing of light upon as by offering details or motives previously unclear or only implicit.

elucidate an obscure passage

interpret adds to explain the need for imagination or sympathy or special knowledge in dealing with something.

interpreting a work of art

Examples of expound in a Sentence

The article expounds the virtues of a healthy diet.

When asked to expound, he had no comment.

Recent Examples on the Web

In voiceover, Dave expounds, hackily, on the annihilating power of fire. —Judy Berman, Time, 27 June 2025

Mentioned toward the end of the film, but not expounded upon, Kenneth disclosed his FSHD diagnosis - a form of muscular dystrophy. —Xian Horn, Forbes.com, 26 June 2025

Boyle expounds on the duo’s inspirations in the latest episode of Deadline’s Crew Call podcast. —Anthony D'alessandro, Deadline, 18 June 2025

During a new conversation with New York Post Sports' Brandon London, Lewis expounded on the realistic options available to the Nets. —Alex Kirschenbaum, MSNBC Newsweek, 28 May 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French espundre, expondre, from Latin exponere to explain — more at expose

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1a

Rhymes for expound

• abound
• aground
• around
• astound
• background
• campground
• clothbound
• confound
• earthbound
• eastbound
• fairground
• foreground

Kids Definition

expound

verb

ex·​pound ik-ˈspau̇nd 

1

: to make known (as one's ideas or beliefs) : set forth

2

: to explain clearly : interpret

expounder noun