An explanation of the basis or fundamental reasons for something.
"The bishop adjusted his elaborate rationale before addressing the congregation during the Easter service."
A liturgical vestment worn by some Christian bishops of various denominations.
In plain English: A rationale is the reason behind why someone did something or chose to do it that way.
"The manager explained her decision with clear rationale to calm down the worried team members."
Usage: Avoid confusing this word with "reason," as "rationale" specifically refers to the underlying logic or justification rather than a single cause. It is often used in formal contexts when explaining why a particular decision, policy, or action was taken.
The word rationale comes from the Late Latin ratiōnale, which originally referred to a woman's undergarment or apron before evolving into its current meaning of reasoning or justification as it entered English.