Elaborate means “detailed” or “to give more details,” depending on how it’s used.

Basic meaning

When someone says, “Can you elaborate?” they are asking you to explain something more clearly and in more detail.

When something is described as “elaborate,” it usually means it is very detailed, complex, or carefully planned.

As a verb: “to elaborate”

To elaborate (verb) means:

  • To add more information.
  • To explain an idea more completely.
  • To go beyond a short answer and give details, examples, or reasons.

Examples:

  • “He said he was resigning but did not elaborate on his reasons.”
  • “I’ll be happy to elaborate if you want to hear more.”

So if a teacher or friend says, “Please elaborate on your answer,” they want you to expand it with more detail, examples, or explanation.

As an adjective: “an elaborate plan”

Elaborate (adjective) describes something that:

  • Has many parts or steps.
  • Is carefully arranged, organized, or decorated.
  • Is detailed or complex rather than simple.

Examples:

  • “An elaborate meal” – a meal with many dishes and careful preparation.
  • “An elaborate costume” – a costume with lots of decorations and details.
  • “An elaborate computer system” – a complex, highly detailed system.

Quick usage guide

You can remember it like this:

  • If you elaborate on something, you explain it more.
  • If something is elaborate , it is very detailed or carefully made.

“Could you elaborate on that?” = “Can you give me more details and explain it more clearly?”

TL;DR:
“Elaborate” as a verb = give more details.
“Elaborate” as an adjective = detailed, complex, or carefully designed.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.