ˌekspəˈzishən, -pōˈ- noun
( -s )
Etymology: Middle English exposicioun, from Middle French exposition, from Latin exposition-, expositio, from expositus (past participle of exponere to explain, expound, set forth) + -ion-, -io -ion — more at expound
1. : a setting forth of the meaning or purpose (as of a writing of discourse) : an expounding of the sense or intent (as of a law) : an interpretation especially of a parable : exegesis
2.
a.
(1) : the art of procedure of expository discourse : the art of presenting a subject matter in detail apart from criticism, argument, or development : elucidation
(2) : a verbal statement or presentation of some subject matter or point of view whether expository, critical, or argumentative
overawed by such a splendid piece of advocacy and exposition — Stewart Cockburn
(3) : presentation or interpretation of any kind
demands a clarity of exposition somewhat foreign to the modern piano — P.H.Lang
b. : discourse or an example of it designed to convey information or explain what is difficult to understand ; especially : a statement embodying an analysis of the subject matter and the use of familiar illustrations or analogies
c. : a part of a composition (as of music or drama) in which the theme or subject is presented or opened out: as
(1) : the first part of a musical composition in sonata form in which the thematic material of the movement is presented
(2) : the opening section of a fugue
3. : an act or an instance of exposing: as
a. : abandonment of an infant
b. : an open display of a religious relic or the Host for public veneration
c. : a public exhibition or show (as of industrial and artistic productions)