illustrate

[il-uh-streyt, ih-luhs-treyt] / ˈɪl əˌstreɪt, ɪˈlʌs treɪt /

VERB

demonstrate, exemplify

Synonyms

STRONGEST

clarify delineate depict embody emphasize epitomize exhibit explain expose highlight illuminate interpret lay out manifest mark mirror personify point up portray represent reveal spotlight symbolize typify

STRONG

allegorize clear disclose elucidate evidence evince expound imitate instance picture proclaim show vivify

WEAK

bring home clear up draw a picture emblematize get across get over limelight make clear make plain ostend show and tell

Antonyms

STRONGEST

complicate conceal confuse cover hide obscure save

VERB

explain by drawing, decorating

Synonyms

STRONGEST

adorn delineate depict illuminate paint portray represent

STRONG

embellish limn ornament picture sketch

Antonyms

WEAK

hide obscure

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The Census Bureau’s latest population estimates illustrate how housing supply supports—or stunts—growth.

From Barron's • Mar. 30, 2026

They argued they had acted independently when making business decisions about when and where to spend advertising money, and said X had failed to illustrate otherwise.

From BBC • Mar. 26, 2026

Ducournau wants to illustrate how fear itself can be a deadly contagion, a reality anyone who lived through those terrible times already knows too well.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 26, 2026

I have an issue that, while affecting only a small group of people, might illustrate broader concerns around required minimum distributions, rollovers and retirement planning.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 23, 2026

Innumerable examples are available to illustrate each mode of amalgamation.

From "Guns, Germs, and Steel: The Fates of Human Societies" by Jared M. Diamond

illustrate

Example Sentences

Related Words