verb

expound

ik-SPOUND/ɪkˈspaʊnd/

To explain an idea or theory in detail.

The teacher expounds the clock's mechanism, explaining how each gear moves the next.

Older Black teacher explains a mechanical clock in detail to adult students, points to sequential gears and clear small diagram.

Etymology

The underlying image is “put forth,” applied to setting out a meaning for others. Early English use included explaining Scripture, connecting the image with detailed interpretation.

In context

Libranima50:41

But what plays the mischief with this masterly code is the admirable brevity of it, which necessitates a vast volume of commentaries to expound it.

Moby Dick - Illustrated Audiobook for Focused Reading (Part 3/3)

More examples

Could you expound on the principles behind your proposal?
She expounded her views on education in a series of essays.
He spends the afternoon expounding a new theory of motivation.

Forms

expound · expounds · expounded · expounding

Similar words

explain: More general; does not necessarily suggest a detailed account.
elucidate: Emphasizes making something difficult clear rather than explaining it extensively.
elaborate: Usually adds detail to an explanation already given.