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Edifying: meaning, definitions and examples

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edifying

 

[ ˈɛdɪfaɪɪŋ ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

moral improvement

Edifying refers to something that is instructive or enlightening, typically in a way that improves the mind or character. The term suggests a focus on moral or intellectual growth, often associated with education or culture.

Synonyms

educational, enlightening, instructive, uplifting.

Examples of usage

  • The lecture was both entertaining and edifying.
  • She found the book to be edifying, shedding light on various ethical dilemmas.
  • Many documentaries are edifying, providing insights into significant historical events.
  • The edifying discussions at the conference inspired many attendees.

Translations

Translations of the word "edifying" in other languages:

🇵🇹 edificante

🇮🇳 शिक्षाप्रद

🇩🇪 erbaulich

🇮🇩 mendidik

🇺🇦 науковий

🇵🇱 edukacyjny

🇯🇵 教育的な

🇫🇷 édifiant

🇪🇸 edificante

🇹🇷 öğretici

🇰🇷 교훈적인

🇸🇦 تعليمي

🇨🇿 vzdělávací

🇸🇰 výchovný

🇨🇳 启发性的

🇸🇮 izobraževalen

🇮🇸 fræðandi

🇰🇿 білімді

🇬🇪 აღზრდითი

🇦🇿 tərbiyəvi

🇲🇽 edificante

Etymology

The word 'edifying' is derived from the Middle English term 'edifien', which comes from the Latin 'aedificare', meaning 'to build'. Etymologically, it combines 'aedis', meaning 'building', and 'facere', meaning 'to make' or 'to do'. This reflects the idea of constructing or developing one's mind or character, much like one would build a physical structure. The use of 'edifying' in English dates back to the 14th century, often associated with religious and moral instruction. It conveys a sense of enlightenment and improvement, suggesting that knowledge and understanding can lead to personal growth and betterment of one's character. Over the centuries, 'edifying' has been frequently used in literary and philosophical contexts, emphasizing its role in education and moral philosophy.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,714, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.