v.tr.
1. make clear or intelligible with detailed information etc. (also absol. : let me explain).
2 (foll. by that + clause) say by way of explanation.
3 account for (one's conduct etc.).
Phrases and idioms:
explain away minimize the significance of (a difficulty or mistake) by explanation. explain oneself
1. make one's meaning clear.
2 give an account of one's motives or conduct.
Derivatives:
explainable adj. explainer n.
Etymology: L explanare (as EX-(1), planus flat, assim. to PLAIN(1))