explain
verb (used with object)
to make plain or clear; render understandable or intelligible.
explained
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past participleof explain.past participle
A verb form used in perfect and passive verb constructions and that can also function as a modifier.
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past tense formof explain.past tense
Used to describe completed actions or previous habitual actions.
explainverb (used with object)to make plain or clear; render understandable or intelligible.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
“I was like, ‘What are the world’s craziest residential pools?’ and when I searched online, this came up,” he explained.
From MarketWatch ● Nov. 2, 2026
It also explained the explosion of national joy on Sunday evening.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Nov. 2, 2026
The park is home to 120 "collection birds", as well as wild birds, he explained.
From BBC ● Nov. 1, 2026
Erik Seiffert, a paleontologist at the University of Southern California and co-author of the study, explained how the evidence has changed his understanding of ape origins.
From Science Daily ● Nov. 1, 2026
Her arms and legs ached all the time, she had explained to Sam, and that was why she moved so slowly.
From "All About Sam" by Lois Lowry
