as in explanation
a statement that makes something clear
any explication of Einstein's theory of relativity probably wouldn't help me much
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Recent Examples of explication
Passover is not about a historical event but about a metaphoric explication of an ideal.
—
Adam Gopnik, New Yorker, 13 Apr. 2026
Worthy of detailed explication?
—Christopher Smith, Oc Register, 20 Jan. 2026
Presumably at some point the filmmakers will unlock CW’s mystery with some origin-story explication.
—Dennis Harvey, Variety, 7 Aug. 2025
Adam Gopnik, New Yorker, 13 Apr. 2026
Worthy of detailed explication?
—Christopher Smith, Oc Register, 20 Jan. 2026
Presumably at some point the filmmakers will unlock CW’s mystery with some origin-story explication.
—Dennis Harvey, Variety, 7 Aug. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for explication
Noun
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This Dutchman has yet to read a better explanation for what makes the nation of his birth tick.—
Leander Schaerlaeckens
June 8,
Literary Hub,
8 June 2026
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Pasandideh said they were not given an explanation as to why some of the visas were not issued.—
Alexandra Mendoza,
San Diego Union-Tribune,
7 June 2026
Noun
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In correspondence discouraging districts’ diversity programs, the administration has repeatedly cited a broad interpretation of the Supreme Court’s ruling on affirmative action, which prevented colleges and universities from directly considering race in admissions.—
Annie Ma,
Los Angeles Times,
9 June 2026
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Microdistiller Jackie Summers’ Sorel Liqueur — a modern interpretation of the Red Drink — adds its rich blend of hibiscus, clove, cinnamon and nutmeg to the Lake Breeze.—
Kate Bradshaw,
Mercury News,
9 June 2026
Noun
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But the model for the wrapper’s illustration, Elena Gernias, later sued the chocolate company unsuccessfully seeking financial compensation for the use of her image.—
Rosemary Feitelberg,
Footwear News,
4 June 2026
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Pastors normally take hours a week to examine the original language for their text, consult commentaries, develop illustrations and examples, and deliberate about practical applications.—
Christian B. Miller,
The Conversation,
4 June 2026
Cite this Entry
“Explication.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/explication. Accessed 11 Jun. 2026.
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