Definition of clarify

The word "clarify" has its roots in the Latin word "clarus," meaning "clear" or "bright." In English, the verb "clarify" has been in use since the 15th century, initially meaning "to make clear" or "to render explicit." The word was often used in religious contexts, particularly in biblical translation, to describe the process of making a mysterious or obscure text clearer and more understandable. Over time, the meaning of "clarify" expanded to include other senses, such as "to free from obscurity or ambiguity" or "to make more intelligible." In modern usage, the word is often used in business, law, and academia to describe the process of rendering complex ideas, documents, or concepts more understandable and transparent. Despite its evolution, the core meaning of "clarify" remains rooted in its Latin heritage, emphasizing the importance of clarity and understanding.