Imbue: meaning, definitions and examples

Use when you want to describe permeating or saturating something with a particular quality or feeling.

• The artist's work is imbued with a sense of melancholy.
• Her speech was imbued with passion and sincerity.

Commonly used when you want to describe introducing a new element, especially in a subtle or gradual manner.

• The chef aimed to infuse the dish with local flavors.
• He tries to infuse his lessons with humor to engage the students.

Used when describing gradually but firmly establishing an idea, attitude, or habit in someone's mind.

• His parents instilled in him a strong work ethic.
• She hoped to instill a love of reading in her students.

Typically used when you want to describe the act of filling someone with the urge or ability to do something, especially something creative.

• Her bravery inspired everyone around her.
• The beauty of the landscape inspired him to start painting again.

Mainly used to describe something deeply embedded or firmly established, often in habits or beliefs.

• Years of tradition had ingrained a deep respect for nature in the community.
• The importance of hygiene was ingrained in her from a young age.

Duplicate entry.

Typically used when referring to the act of changing the color of fabric, hair, or other materials by applying a dye. Often used in a literal, practical sense.

• She decided to dye her hair a vibrant red
• The company specializes in dyeing textiles

Commonly used to describe giving something a particular hue or shade, but also used metaphorically to suggest affecting someone's perception or emotions.

• The artist decided to color the sky with shades of purple and pink
• His experiences in the war colored his view of the world

Typically used to describe giving a slight or subtle addition of color to something. Often used with more delicate or gentle applications.

• She decided to tint the glass windows with a light blue hue
• The sky was tinted with shades of pink during the sunset

Often used in situations where something is accidentally or negatively marked, typically with a difficult-to-remove or noticeable mark. Can also be used metaphorically to denote tarnishing someone's reputation.

• He accidentally spilled coffee and stained his shirt
• The scandal stained his otherwise impeccable career