Embodied: meaning, definitions and examples

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embodied

[ɪmˈbɒdi ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

in psychology

Representing or expressing an idea or quality completely and in a tangible form.

Synonyms

incarnate, manifested, personified.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
embodied	Used when something is given tangible, physical form, often in the context of abstract ideas or concepts. The artist's feelings are embodied in the sculpture The company's values are embodied in its mission statement
personified	Often used to describe someone (or something) that embodies certain qualities or traits to an extreme degree, giving human attributes to abstract qualities. He was greed personified, always hoarding money The hero was courage personified in the battle
manifested	Used to describe something that has become evident or obvious, often in reference to signs or symptoms. His fear manifested as a shaking hand The disease manifested itself with sudden fever and chills
incarnate	Commonly used to describe a person or being that represents an abstract concept or quality in a physical form, often with a sense of divine or mystical significance. The villain in the story was evil incarnate She was kindness incarnate, always ready to help others

Examples of usage

The character in the novel is the embodied spirit of perseverance.
Through her dance, she embodied the emotions of the music.
The painting embodied the essence of love and passion.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

in philosophy

To give a tangible or visible form to an abstract concept.

Synonyms

exemplify, represent, symbolize.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
embodied	Use 'embodied' when you want to talk about something that physically represents or contains an idea or quality. It's often used to describe a person or object that clearly demonstrates a concept. She embodied the spirit of the revolution The monument embodied the town's resilience
represent	Use 'represent' when talking about standing in for something or someone, or illustrating an idea through a symbol or a figure. It is versatile and can be used in a variety of contexts. He will represent the company at the conference The dove represents peace
symbolize	Use 'symbolize' when you want to talk about something acting as a sign or symbol that stands for a deeper meaning or concept. It's often used in literature and art. The phoenix symbolizes rebirth and renewal The red flag symbolizes danger
exemplify	Use 'exemplify' when you want to give an example that demonstrates or illustrates a point or quality. It's often used in academic or formal writing. Her actions exemplify the dedication of an ideal employee This painting exemplifies the style of the Renaissance period

Examples of usage

She embodied the principles of justice in her actions.
His artwork embodies the struggle for freedom and equality.
The statue perfectly embodies the beauty of simplicity.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The term comes from the Old French word 'embodier,' meaning to 'form into a body'.
Its roots can be traced back to the Latin word 'inbody', which means to put into a body or substance.
It first appeared in English in the 15th century, reflecting the merging of physical presence with abstract concepts.

Philosophy

In philosophy, the concept often relates to how mental states can be manifested through physical actions.
Embodiment examines how our physical experiences shape our understanding and perception of the world.
The philosophy of embodiment suggests that the mind and body are interlinked, influencing our cognition and behavior.

Performing Arts

In theatre, actors embody characters, making their thoughts and emotions visible to the audience.
Dance can be seen as a form of embodiment, where feelings or stories are expressed physically through movement.
Choreography often focuses on how movements can encapsulate deeper meanings and emotions.

Psychology

Embodiment in psychology explores how body signals can affect our emotions and thoughts.
Research shows that our physical actions can influence our mental states, such as smiling making you feel happier.
Therapies like dance movement therapy focus on using movement to express feelings and heal emotional wounds.

Cultural Representation

Various cultures use rituals to embody spiritual beliefs, translating abstract ideas into tangible practices.
Art installations often aim to embody social issues, provoking thought and discussion through physical representations.
Fashion can embody cultural identity, allowing individuals to express their heritage and personal history through clothing.

Translations

Translations of the word "embodied" in other languages:

🇵🇹 incorporado

🇮🇳 साकार

🇩🇪 verkörpert

🇮🇩 berwujud

🇺🇦 втілений

🇵🇱 ucieleśniony

🇯🇵 具現化された

🇫🇷 incarné

🇪🇸 encarnado

🇹🇷 vücut bulmuş

🇰🇷 구체화된

🇸🇦 مجسد

🇨🇿 ztělesněný

🇸🇰 vtelený

🇨🇳 体现

🇸🇮 utelesljen

🇮🇸 holdtekin

🇰🇿 дене

🇬🇪 ხორცშესხმული

🇦🇿 cisimlənmiş

🇲🇽 encarnado

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,924 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.

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5921 socially
5922 hated
5923 commissioned
5924 embodied
5925 indebted
5926 neighbor
5927 exchanged
...