explanation Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun a statement that makes something comprehensible by describing the relevant structure or operation or circumstances etc.
    account.
    • the explanation was very simple
    • I expected a brief account
  2. noun thought that makes something comprehensible
  3. noun the act of explaining; making something plain or intelligible
    • I heard his explanation of the accident

WordNet

Ex`pla*na"tion noun
Etymology
L. explanatio: cf. OF. esplanation.
Definitions
  1. The act of explaining, expounding, or interpreting; the act of clearing from obscurity and making intelligible; as, the explanation of a passage in Scripture, or of a contract or treaty.
  2. That which explains or makes clear; as, a satisfactory explanation.
  3. The meaning attributed to anything by one who explains it; definition; inerpretation; sense.
    Different explanations [of the Trinity]. Bp. Burnet.
  4. A mutual exposition of terms, meaning, or motives, with a view to adjust a misunderstanding, and reconcile differences; reconciliation; agreement; as, to come to an explanation. Syn. -- Definition; description; explication; exposition; interpretation; detail. See Definition.

Webster 1913