elucidate

[ ih-loo-si-deyt ]

verb (used with object)

, e·lu·ci·dat·ed, e·lu·ci·dat·ing.

1. to make lucid or clear; throw light upon; explain:

   an explanation that elucidated his recent strange behavior.

   Synonyms: illuminate, clarify

verb (used without object)

, e·lu·ci·dat·ed, e·lu·ci·dat·ing.

1. to provide clarification; explain.

   Synonyms: illustrate, clear up

elucidate

/ ɪˈluːsɪˌdeɪt /

verb

1. to make clear (something obscure or difficult); clarify

Derived Forms

• eˈluciˌdator, noun
• eˈluciˌdative, adjective
• eˌluciˈdation, noun

Other Words From

• e·lu·ci·da·tion [ih-loo-si-, dey, -sh, uh, n], noun
• e·lu·ci·da·tive adjective
• e·lu·ci·da·tor noun
• non·e·lu·ci·dat·ing adjective
• non·e·lu·ci·da·tive adjective
• un·e·lu·ci·dat·ed adjective
• un·e·lu·ci·dat·ing adjective
• un·e·lu·ci·da·tive adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of elucidate¹

First recorded in 1560–70; from Late Latin ēlūcidātus “enlightened” (past participle of ēlūcidāre ), equivalent to ē- intensive prefix + lūcid(us) “bright, shining, clear, clear to the understanding” + -ātus adjective suffix; e- ¹, lucid, -ate ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of elucidate¹

C16: from Late Latin ēlūcidāre to enlighten; see lucid

Example Sentences

"The people coming to these rallies deserve substance about plans Trump has as a candidate, if he could elucidate on some of the threats he's made to people," Wears told ABC.

From Salon

While remote data can reveal elusive aspects of life during conflict, personal interviews and surveys can elucidate long-term — even transgenerational — impacts of war.

From Salon

As a writer and director, Baker has dedicated much of his career to elucidating the subtleties of figures like Ani who are often relegated to the background.

From Salon

"Through her focus on the multifaceted experiences of Dalit women, Paik elucidates the enduring nature of caste discrimination and the forces that perpetuate untouchability and marginality," the Foundation said while announcing this year’s nominees.

From BBC

We chronicle, explicate, elucidate and constantly “re-adjudicate” historical events and personages.

From Salon

Related Words

• clear up
• decode
• enlighten
• exemplify
• explicate
• expound
• get across
• illuminate

When To Use

What are other ways to say elucidate?

To elucidate something is to throw light upon it or make it clear. How does elucidate compare to synonyms explain, expound, and interpret? Find out on Thesaurus.com.