εξηγώ

Lemma: εξηγώ

Translation: explains; clarifies; interprets (verb)

Etymology: From Ancient Greek ἐξηγέομαι (exēgéomai), composed of ἐξ- (ex-, 'out of') + ἡγέομαι (hēgéomai, 'to lead, guide'). The original meaning was 'to lead out' or 'to guide forth', which evolved into 'to lead someone to understanding' - hence 'to explain'. This connects to English 'exegesis' (critical interpretation of text) and shares the same root as 'hegemony' (leadership/dominance). The metaphor of 'leading someone out of confusion' into clarity remains central to its meaning.