verb
1.
to make something comprehensible or more comprehensible
a commentary that explains the allegory
Synonyms: construe, explicate, expound, interpret, spell out; compare clarify 2
Related Word: decipher, disentangle, undo, unravel, unriddle, unscramble, untangle; analyze, break down; clear up, resolve, solve
Idioms: put into plain English
Contrasted words: confound, confuse, puzzle
Antonyms: obfuscate
2.
Synonyms: clarify 2, clear, clear up, elucidate, illuminate, illustrate
3.
to give the reason for or cause of
unable to explain his strange conduct
Synonyms: account, explain away, justify, rationalize
Related Word: condone, excuse; absolve, acquit, exculpate, exonerate, vindicate