explain Hear it!

explain definition

ex·plain (ek splān′, ik-)

transitive verb

  1. to make clear, plain, or understandable
  2. to give the meaning or interpretation of; expound
  3. to account for; state reasons for

Etymology: ME explanen < L explanare, to flatten < ex-, out + planare, to make level < planus, level (see plane): sp. infl. by plain

intransitive verb

to give an explanation

Related Forms:

explain Idioms

explain away

to state reasons for so as to justify, often by minimizing, or make understandable

explain oneself

  1. to make clear what one means
  2. to give reasons justifying one's conduct

Webster's New World College Dictionary Copyright © 2009 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

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