rationale

noun

An explanation of the basis or fundamental reasons for something.

A justification or rationalization for something.

(rare, religion) A liturgical vestment worn by some Christian bishops of various denominations.

Roots

reorrat- · Latin · reckon, reason

Synonyms for rationale

principlen reasoningn justificationn explanationn rationalizationn logicn explicationn theoryn pretextn

Synonyms & related words for rationale

Find synonyms, related words, and the definition of rationale — including principle, reasoning, justification, explanation, rationalization, logic. Dendril is a free visual thesaurus that shows them on an interactive map where stronger matches sit closer to the center — no signup, no ads.

Words related to rationale

Explore words related to rationale — words associated with it, words that go with it, and its nearest matches in meaning. Related words include ratiocinate, syllogize, reasons, antirational, reasoned, outreason, logicize, epagoge. Click any word to make it the center of the map and keep exploring the web of connections.

Synonyms for rationale

Common synonyms for rationale include principle, reasoning, justification, explanation, rationalization, logic, explication, theory — words that share a close meaning. Hover or tap any word on the map for its definition and part of speech.

Where does rationale come from?

The word rationale breaks down into one root of Latin origin: the root rat-, from Latin reor (“reckon, reason”). Explore each root to see other English words built from the same source.