Illustrate Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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illustrate

[หˆษชlษ™streษชt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

drawing

To provide a visual representation or explanation of something using pictures, diagrams, or other visual aids.

Synonyms

demonstrate, depict, represent, show.

Examples of usage

  • Illustrate your ideas with some sketches.
  • The book is beautifully illustrated with colorful drawings.
  • She used a map to illustrate her journey.
Context #2 | Verb

clarify

To make something clear or easier to understand by providing examples or explanations.

Synonyms

clarify, demonstrate, elucidate, explain.

Examples of usage

  • Can you illustrate your point with a real-life example?
  • The teacher used a story to illustrate the concept of friendship.
Context #3 | Noun

publishing

A picture or drawing used to decorate or explain a text.

Synonyms

drawing, image, picture, sketch.

Examples of usage

  • The magazine cover features an eye-catching illustration.
  • The book includes several illustrations of the main characters.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

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 childrenโ€™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.

Origin of 'illustrate'

Main points about word origin

  • 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.

The word 'illustrate' comes from the Latin word 'illustrare', which means 'to make bright' or 'light up'. It first appeared in English in the late 16th century. The use of illustrations has been a common practice throughout history to enhance understanding and provide visual appeal to written works. In the digital age, illustrations continue to play a significant role in various fields such as publishing, advertising, and education.


Word Frequency Rank

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.