explain
UK[ɪkˈspleɪn]US[ɪkˈspleɪn]
v
To make something clear or easy to understand by describing or giving information about it.
v
To give a reason for something or to be the reason for something.
Morpheme Breakdown
ex
plain
ex
out
plain
flat, clear, or level.
Etymology
The word "explain" originates from the Latin verb explanare, which means "to make level, to flatten out, or to make clear." This verb itself is a compound of the prefix ex- ("out") and the adjective planus ("flat, level, clear"). The conceptual logic is metaphorical: just as flattening a surface removes wrinkles and obstructions, explaining an idea removes intellectual wrinkles and obstacles to understanding, making the matter "plain" or clear. The term entered English via Old French explaner in the late Middle English period, retaining this core sense of making something clear by laying it out thoroughly.
Analysis
Structure: ex + plain
- ex: A Latin prefix meaning "out" or "thoroughly." It functions as an intensifier in this word.
- plain: From Latin planus, meaning "flat, clear, or level." It functions as the core root conveying the sense of clarity.
Examples
Could you explain the rules of the game one more time?
The scientist tried to explain the complex theory in simple terms.
That does not explain why he was late.