EXPLICITS

EXPLICIT

Ex"pli*cit. Etym: [LL., an abbreviation of explicitus (est liber) the book (which anciently was a roll of parchment) is unfolded (and, of course, "finished"). See Explicit, a.]

Definition: A word formerly used (as finis is now) at the conclusion of a book to indicate the end.

Ex*plic"it, a. Etym: [L. explicitus; p.p. of explicare to unfold: cf. F. explicite. See Explicate, Exploit.]

1. Not implied merely, or conveyed by implication; distinctly stated; plain in language; open to the understanding; clear; not obscure or ambiguous; express; unequivocal; as, an explicit declaration. The language of the charter was too explicit to admit of a doubt. Bancroft.

2. Having no disguised meaning or reservation; unreserved; outspoken;

– applied to persons; as, he was earnest and explicit in his statement. Explicit function. (Math.) See under Function.

Syn.

– Express; clear; plain; open; unreserved; unambiguous.

– Explicit, Express. Explicit denotes a setting forth in the plainest, language, so that the meaning can not be misunderstood; as, an explicit promise. Express is stronger than explicit: it adds force to clearness. An express promise or engagement is not only unambiguous, but stands out in bold relief, with the most binding hold on the conscience. An explicit statement; a clear and explicit notion; explicit direction; no words can be more explicit. An explicit command; an express prohibition. "An express declaration goes forcibly and directly to the point. An explicit declaration leaves nothing ambiguous." C. J. Smith.

Source: Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary 1913 Edition