expound

verb

ik-ˈspau̇nd How to pronounce expound (audio)
Definition of expoundnext
1
as in to express
to make known (as an idea, emotion, or opinion) a rambling interview in which the celebrated author expounds his views on an array of topics

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in to explain
to make plain or understandable at the start of the trial the judge expounded the legal difference between libel and slander to the jury

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb expound contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of expound are elucidate, explain, explicate, and interpret. While all these words mean "to make something clear or understandable," expound implies a careful often elaborate explanation.

expounding a scientific theory

When would elucidate be a good substitute for expound?

The words elucidate and expound are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, elucidate stresses the throwing of light upon as by offering details or motives previously unclear or only implicit.

elucidate an obscure passage

Where would explain be a reasonable alternative to expound?

While in some cases nearly identical to expound, explain implies a making plain or intelligible what is not immediately obvious or entirely known.

explain the rules

When might explicate be a better fit than expound?

The words explicate and expound can be used in similar contexts, but explicate adds the idea of a developed or detailed analysis.

explicate a poem

How are the words interpret and explain related as synonyms of expound?

Interpret adds to explain the need for imagination or sympathy or special knowledge in dealing with something.

interpreting a work of art

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of expound In voiceover, Dave expounds, hackily, on the annihilating power of fire. —Judy Berman, Time, 27 June 2025 Mentioned toward the end of the film, but not expounded upon, Kenneth disclosed his FSHD diagnosis - a form of muscular dystrophy. —Xian Horn, Forbes.com, 26 June 2025 Boyle expounds on the duo’s inspirations in the latest episode of Deadline’s Crew Call podcast. —Anthony D'alessandro, Deadline, 18 June 2025 During a new conversation with New York Post Sports' Brandon London, Lewis expounded on the realistic options available to the Nets. —Alex Kirschenbaum, MSNBC Newsweek, 28 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for expound
Recent Examples of Synonyms for expound
  1. express
  2. explain
  3. voice
  4. clarify
  5. give
  6. illustrate
  7. demonstrate
Verb
  • John McEnroe, never shy with an opinion, has expressed skepticism about pickleball — yet even his tennis academy on Randall’s Island in New York City has converted five existing tennis courts to 12 indoor pickleball courts.
    — Stefan Boyland, San Diego Union-Tribune, 15 July 2025
  • Though the director has publicly expressed his desire to retire the character — even revealing plans to kill her off in a 2018 interview on Bevy Smith’s SiriusXM show Bevelations — fan support has kept her alive.
    — Emily Blackwood, People.com, 15 July 2025
Definition of express
Verb
  • Police officials will explain how the new police drones can be remotely deployed and piloted toward the scene of an incident from docks placed across the city.
    — Cameron Knight, The Enquirer, 26 July 2025
  • Upright vacuum cleaners typically have bigger motors, which generate more powerful suction, Ho explains.
    — Meghan Overdeep, Southern Living, 25 July 2025
Definition of explain
Verb
  • In Wednesday’s discussion, though, Musk voiced optimistic projections for rapid increases in robotaxi service.
    — Karoline Leonard, Austin American Statesman, 25 July 2025
  • During their victim impact statements, the parents of victim Kaylee Goncalves voiced their anger at the 30-year-old Kohberger.
    — Sally Krutzig, Idaho Statesman, 24 July 2025
Definition of voice
Verb
  • This mindset sharpens execution, clarifies your narrative and aligns your team around value creation.
    — Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 25 July 2025
  • Mulford clarified the board vote did not approve an AI plan.
    — Edward McKinnon, Arkansas Online, 25 July 2025
Definition of clarify
Verb
  • Sullivan's unique blend of contemporary R&B, soul, gospel and reggae influences gave quiet storm, late-night radio vibes, especially as a vibrant orange and red sunset transformed the upbeat evening into a moody night illuminated by smartphone flashlights.
    — Haadiza Ogwude, The Enquirer, 27 July 2025
  • Pro Bowl quarterback Matthew Stafford was expected to miss the first handful of practices with a sore back, but head coach Sean McVay gave an update on Stafford's status on Saturday that likely has Rams fans at least a little concerned.
    — Michael Gallagher, MSNBC Newsweek, 27 July 2025
Definition of give
Verb
  • Though Combs denied the allegation, the incident illustrates how some individuals may attempt to exert control over their current or former partners, even through intimidation or violence, to prevent them from forming new relationships.
    — Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 19 July 2025
  • The artist continues to interrogate the interplay between image and text in culture today –– illustrating the persistent dominance of advertising, as well as the peculiarities of newer phenomena, such as memes.
    — Megan Williams, CNN Money, 18 July 2025
Definition of illustrate
Verb
  • The new molecule can be injected into veins or muscles and has demonstrated its ability to cross the protective 'blood–brain barrier' and effectively reach receptors in brain cells.
    — Health Reporter, MSNBC Newsweek, 24 July 2025
  • By demonstrating ambition, clarity and joined up thinking locally, Manchester has built something that national government is now backing.
    — Kath Mackay, Forbes.com, 24 July 2025
Definition of demonstrate

Browse Nearby Words

exposures
expound
expounded
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Cite this Entry

“Expound.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/expound. Accessed 30 Jul. 2025.

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Nglish: Translation of expound for Spanish Speakers

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