explicative

[ ek-spli-key-tiv, ik-splik-uh-tiv ]

adjective

1. explanatory; interpretive.

Other Words From

• expli·cative·ly adverb
• non·expli·cative adjective
• un·expli·cative adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of explicative¹

From the Latin word explicātīvus, dating back to 1620–30. See explicate, -ive

Example Sentences

All of Edwards's other writings may be arranged in relation to this principle,—as introductory, explicative, or defensive.

From Project Gutenberg

The first and second are informative, explicative, they take in and dothe other gives out.

From Project Gutenberg

The explicative myths, arising from utility, from the necessity of knowing.

From Project Gutenberg