explain

explain [ek splān′, iksplān′]

vt.

[ME explanen < L explanare, to flatten < ex-, out + planare, to make level < planus, level (see PLANE²): sp. infl. by PLAIN¹]

1. to make clear, plain, or understandable

2. to give the meaning or interpretation of; expound

3. to account for; state reasons for

vi.

to give an explanation

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explain away

to state reasons for so as to justify, often by minimizing, or make understandable

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explain oneself

1. to make clear what one means

2. to give reasons justifying one's conduct

explainable

adj.

SYN.- EXPLAIN implies a making clear or intelligible of something that is not known or understood [to explain how a machine operates ]; EXPOUND implies a systematic and thorough explanation, often one made by a person having expert knowledge [to expound a theory ]; EXPLICATE implies a scholarly analysis or exposition that is developed in detail [the explication of a Biblical passage ]; ELUCIDATE implies a shedding light upon by clear and specific explanation, illustration, etc. [to elucidate the country's foreign policy ]; to INTERPRET is to bring out meanings not immediately apparent, as by translation, searching insight, or special knowledge [how do you interpret his silence? ]; CONSTRUE suggests a particular interpretation of something whose meaning is ambiguous [his statement is not to be lightly construed]