explanation

noun

Something that explains or makes understandable.

The act or process of explaining.

A resolution of disputed points pursuant to discussion; a mutual clarification of disputed points; reconciliation.

Roots

Synonyms for explanation

explicationn elucidationn justificationn clarificationn rationalen exculpationn reasonn excusen interpretationn answern exegesisn

Synonyms & related words for explanation

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Words related to explanation

Explore words related to explanation — words associated with it, words that go with it, and its nearest matches in meaning. Related words include explicatory, explicative, explicator, explanatory, explaining, epexegesis, explains, explicated. Click any word to make it the center of the map and keep exploring the web of connections.

Synonyms for explanation

Common synonyms for explanation include explication, elucidation, justification, clarification, rationale, exculpation, reason, excuse — words that share a close meaning. Hover or tap any word on the map for its definition and part of speech.

Where does explanation come from?

The word explanation breaks down into one root of Latin origin: the root plan-, from Latin planus (“flat, level”). Explore each root to see other English words built from the same source.