explanation

noun

ex·​pla·​na·​tion ˌek-splə-ˈnā-shən How to pronounce explanation (audio)
Synonyms of explanation
1
: the act or process of explaining
declined without any explanation
The company offered little by way of explanation for the problems. [=as a way of explaining why there were problems]
2
: something that explains
The professor's explanation was that the poem was really a parody.

Synonyms of explanation

Relevance
See All Synonyms & Antonyms in Thesaurus

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.
Nerves Experience Pressure When Your Limb Falls Asleep The classic explanation, and still the dominant one, is mechanical. — Scott Travers, Forbes.com, 27 July 2026 But there were also easy-to-spot explanations for Östlund’s lack of production. — Matthew Fairburn, New York Times, 27 July 2026 This offers one possible explanation for teenage risk-taking behavior and susceptibility to peer influence. — J. Todd R. Lawrence, STAT, 27 July 2026 The explanation lies deeper than any individual leader or political faction. — José Singer, Miami Herald, 27 July 2026 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

Rhymes for explanation

See All Rhymes for explanation

Browse Nearby Words

explanate
explanation
explanative
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Cite this Entry

“Explanation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/explanation. Accessed 31 Jul. 2026.

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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

Nglish: Translation of explanation for Spanish Speakers

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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