explain
UK: ɪkˈspleɪn | US: ɪkˈspleɪn
vt. to make something clear or understandable by describing or giving reasons
vt. to give a detailed account of a concept or situation
vi. to justify or provide an excuse for an action
explain = ex<out> + plain<flat, clear>
- ex: A Latin prefix meaning "out" or "thoroughly," often indicating removal or emphasis.
- plain: Derived from Latin planus (flat, clear), evolving into Old French plain (clear, evident). In English, it retained the sense of clarity.
Etymology Origin:
The word "explain" originates from Latin explanare ("to make level or clear"), combining ex- (out) and planus (flat). The metaphor suggests "flattening out" complexities to reveal clarity. Over time, it shifted from literal smoothing (e.g., flattening land) to abstract clarification (e.g., making ideas understandable).
The teacher used diagrams to explain the scientific concept.
Can you explain why you arrived late?
The manual explains how to assemble the furniture.
She explained her absence with a valid reason.
Philosophers often try to explain the meaning of life.