Illustrate: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from the Latin 'illustrare', meaning 'to light up' or 'to make clear'.
• It has been used in English since the 15th century, originally referring to illuminating manuscripts.
• Over time, the meaning expanded to include any method of explanation, not just through light.

Art

• Illustration is a key component in children's books, helping engage young readers' imaginations.
• Famous illustrators, like Beatrix Potter and Dr. Seuss, used their drawings to become beloved figures in children’s literature.
• The art of illustration has evolved with technology, now including digital illustrations and animations.

Education

• Visual aids, which often include illustrations, can enhance learning by appealing to different learning styles.
• Studies show that students who study with illustrated materials typically retain information better.
• Illustrations can facilitate better communication in educational materials, making complex ideas easier to grasp.

Pop Culture

• Graphic novels have soared in popularity, blending art and storytelling to illustrate complex themes.
• Cartoon illustrations often capture social and political issues, making them relatable and accessible to wider audiences.
• In movies, animated illustrations bring characters and stories to life, adding depth to narratives.

Psychology

• Visual imagery is an essential tool in cognitive psychology, used to understand how people process and memorize information.
• Illustrating concepts can enhance empathy, helping individuals understand diverse perspectives.
• Art therapy often involves the use of illustrations to express emotions and reveal underlying thoughts.

Ranking #3,648, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.

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