Definition of "explain" in English

verb

1. (transitive) To make plain, manifest, or intelligible; to clear of obscurity; to illustrate the meaning of.

   • The issue was explained to the governor in detail.

2. (transitive) To give the reason for, justification for, or cause of.

3. (obsolete) To make flat, smooth out.

4. (obsolete) To unfold or make visible.

   • April 14, 1684, John Evelyn, a letter sent to the Royal Society concerning the damage done to his gardens by the preceding winter The horse-chestnut is […] ready to explain its leaf.

5. (intransitive) To make something plain or intelligible.

   • She tried to explain but he wouldn’t listen.