explanation

noun

ex·​pla·​na·​tion ˌek-splə-ˈnā-shən How to pronounce explanation (audio)
1
: the act or process of explaining
2
: something that explains
gave no explanation

Examples of explanation in a Sentence

The professor's explanation was that the poem is really a parody. an explanation of photosynthesis that most museum visitors will be able to understand
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
On the other hand, vague explanations or rigid policies may suggest pay inequities, poor planning, or a top-down management structure. Kate Wieczorek, Forbes.com, 29 July 2025 Most questions are multiple-choice, but some seek explanations. Steve Sadin, Chicago Tribune, 28 July 2025 Hundreds of Thousands Donald Trump's New Order Hits College Football 'Salaries' Coast Guard Patrols Russia Sea Border To Protect US Interests Royal Caribbean has not released the names of the crew members involved in the incident or offered any explanation for the motive behind the stabbing. Martha McHardy, MSNBC Newsweek, 26 July 2025 State officials who spoke to CNN for this story say they were given no explanation for why the awards were reduced or increased this cycle. Brenda Goodman, CNN Money, 25 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for explanation

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of explanation was in the 14th century

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Cite this Entry

“Explanation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/explanation. Accessed 2 Aug. 2025.

Kids Definition

explanation

noun
ex·​pla·​na·​tion ˌek-splə-ˈnā-shən How to pronounce explanation (audio)
1
: the act or process of explaining
2
: a statement that makes something clear

More from Merriam-Webster on explanation

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