First Known Use: 1657
Dictionary
rationale
noun ra·tio·nale \ˌra-shə-ˈnal\
: the reason or explanation for something
Full Definition of RATIONALE
1
: an explanation of controlling principles of opinion, belief, practice, or phenomena
2
: an underlying reason : basis
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Origin of RATIONALE
Latin, neuter of rationalis
Related to RATIONALE
- Synonyms
- account, accounting, argument, case, explanation, reason
RATIONALE Defined for Kids
rationale
noun ra·tio·nale \ˌra-shə-ˈnal\
Definition of RATIONALE for Kids
: a basic explanation or reason for something <What is the rationale behind your decision?>
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