expound

[ ik-spound ]

verb (used with object)

1. to set forth or state in detail:

   to expound theories.

2. to explain; interpret.

verb (used without object)

1. to make a detailed statement (often followed by on ).

expound

/ ɪkˈspaʊnd /

verb

1. whenintr, foll by on or about to explain or set forth (an argument, theory, etc) in detail

   he expounded his reasoning

   to expound on one's theories

Derived Forms

• exˈpounder, noun

Other Words From

• ex·pound·er noun
• pre·ex·pound verb (used with object)
• un·ex·pound·ed adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of expound¹

First recorded in 1250–1300; Middle English expounen, expounden, from Old French espondre, from Latin expōnere “to put out, set forth, explain,” equivalent to ex- ex- ¹ + pōnere “to put”

Word History and Origins

Origin of expound¹

C13: from Old French espondre, from Latin expōnere to set forth, from pōnere to put

Example Sentences

Tanton kindles a small fire of twigs inside a metal pitcher, while expounding for the camera about ecology and overpopulation.

From Salon

Fox News host Maria Bartiromo set Trump up to expound on his campaign's ongoing smearing of immigrants.

From Salon

She has not expounded on the comment, but has appeared to suggest that fracking can continue because other efforts can help clean up or preserve the environment.

From Los Angeles Times

In an interview with The Times that has been edited and condensed for clarity and space, Silverman expounds on developing this landmark episode.

From Los Angeles Times

Their joint statement described their world view and expounded on criticism of U.S. military alliances in Asia and the Pacific.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• clarify
• delineate
• exemplify
• explain
• explicate
• express
• illustrate
• set forth
• spell out

When To Use

What are other ways to say expound?

To expound something is to set it forth or state it in detail. How does expound differ from elucidate, explain, and interpret? Find out on Thesaurus.com.