explain
explain definition
ex·plain (ek splān′, ik-)
transitive verb
- to make clear, plain, or understandable
- to give the meaning or interpretation of; expound
- 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:
- explainable ex·plain′·able adjective
explain Idioms
explain away
to state reasons for so as to justify, often by minimizing, or make understandable
explain oneself
- to make clear what one means
- 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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