explanation

Word parts

explain + -ation

Pronunciation

• IPA ^(key): /ˌɛkspləˈneɪʃən/

• Audio (US)

  (file)

• Hyphenation: ex‧pla‧na‧tion

Noun

Singular explanation

Plural explanations

1. (countable) An explanation is the words used to tell somebody how to do something or the reason for something.
   • Synonym: account

   The explanation was long and drawn-out.

2. (countable) An explanation is the cause of something.
   • Synonym: reason

   The explanation for his bad mood was a lack of sleep.

Related words

• explain