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Definition of explain

explain

/ɪkˈspleɪn/
ex · plain
Adjective:explanatory
•
Past Simple:explained
•
Past Participle:explained
•
Present Participle:explaining
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explain Lexical Profile

explain Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To make an idea, situation, or problem clear to someone by describing it in detail or revealing relevant facts.

Example

"The professor took a few extra minutes to explain the complex mathematical theorem to the class."

2

To serve as the cause, reason, or justification for an event, phenomenon, or behavior.

Example

"Sudden shifts in atmospheric pressure explain the unpredictable weather patterns in the region."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for explain
Antonyms
View all antonyms for explain

Word Nuance & Usage

Unlike verbs such as 'tell' or 'show', 'explain' does not take an indirect object without the preposition 'to' (use 'explain the problem to me' rather than 'explain me the problem').

• Rhymes for explain

• Nearby Words

expiration
expire
expiry
explain
explainability
explainable
explainer

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the early 15th century from Latin explanare, meaning 'to make level, smooth out, or make clear', formed from ex- ('out') and planus ('flat, plain').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Explain. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/explain
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