Define
Explain
Explain verb - To make plain or understandable.
Usage example: a pamphlet that explains the medical procedure in language that any layperson can understand
Define is a synonym for explain in elucidate topic. You can use "Define" instead a verb "Explain", if it concerns topics such as make clear, translate, render more intelligible, make clear or plain.
Mutual synonyms
Common collocations
| name | define name | explain name |
| relationship | define relationship | explain relationship |
| nature | define nature | explain nature |
| reason | define reason | explain reason |
| Other words: appearance, death, way, characters, concept, history, existence, rules, powers, abilities. | ||
Both words in one sentence
- The Xanth novels define "coincidence" as a word used by Mundanes to explain away something magical happening.
Source: There Are No Coincidences -
The objective of this analysis isnt to define the term, but to explain it as a psychological phenomenon.
Source: Analysis / Escapism -
To most, academics exist solely to explain, prove, and better define religious "truth" (for example, studying Elven magic to prove they are inferior to The Maker).
Cite this Source
Explain and Define. (2016). Retrieved 2026, August 14, from https://thesaurus.plus/related/define/explain
Define & Explain. N.p., 2016. Web. 14 Aug. 2026. <https://thesaurus.plus/related/define/explain>.
Explain or Define. 2016. Accessed August 14, 2026. https://thesaurus.plus/related/define/explain.
Google Ngram Viewer shows how "define" and "explain" have occurred on timeline