DictionaryAI

explain

verb
ik-SPLAYN/ɪkˈspleɪn/

Formsexplains, explaining, explained

5 meanings of explain

Practice

  1. 1
    spell outverbtransitive
    To tell someone about something so that they understand it.

    Like turning on a light so people can see what was hidden in the dark.

    The teacher will explain the new rules before the game starts.

    Can you explain this math problem to me one more time?

    UsageSay explain it to me (not incorrect: explain me).

    Note
  2. 2
    verbtransitive
    To give the reason why something happened or why you did it.

    He had to explain why he was late for school.

    Please explain your decision to the rest of the team.

    UsageOften with why: explain why you were late.

    Similarjustify, excuse, rationalize

    Note
  3. 3
    account forverbtransitive
    For a fact or event, to be the reason that something happened or is true.

    A broken heater would explain why the room is so cold.

    The big storm explains all the branches lying in the road.

    UsageOften with partly or largely. People also say that explains it.

    Note

Less common meanings

  1. 4
    verbobsolete
    To open something out so that it can be seen.
    Note
  2. 5
    verbobsolete
    To make something flat or smooth.
    Note

Practice

Can you tell the meanings of explain apart? Answer 3 quick questions from this page, or write your own sentence and AI will check it.

Origin

From Latin explanō, meaning to flatten, spread out, or make clear. It comes from ex- (out) plus planus (level, plain).

Checked 5 Nov 2026 · 4 facts