# explanation

> English word · Noun · IPA /ˌɛkspləˈneɪʃən/ · frequency rank #3,360

## Definitions
1. The act or process of explaining.
2. Something that explains or makes understandable.
3. A resolution of disputed points pursuant to discussion; a mutual clarification of disputed points; reconciliation.

## Etymology
From Latin explanatio (“an explanation, interpretation”), from explanare (“explain”); see explain. Morphologically explain + -ation. Displaced native Old English racu.

## Easily confused with
- **exploration** (https://plainspell.com/en/vs/explanation-vs-exploration)
- **explanations** (https://plainspell.com/en/vs/explanation-vs-explanations)
- **exclamation** (https://plainspell.com/en/vs/exclamation-vs-explanation)

## Common misspellings (17)
`epxlanation`, `exlpanation`, `expalnation`, `explaantion`, `explanaiton`, `explanasion`, `explanatino`, `explanationn`, `explanatoin`, `explanattion`, `explannation`, `explantaion`, `expllanation`, `explnaation`, `expplanation`, `exxplanation`, `xeplanation`

## Source
Compiled from Wiktionary via kaikki.org (CC BY-SA). Data vintage: 2026-05-06.
Canonical page: https://plainspell.com/en/word/explanation