Personified: meaning, definitions and examples

Refers to giving human characteristics to something abstract or non-human, often used in literature and art.

• In the poem, love is personified as a gentle, kind figure.
• The character of Death is personified in many stories.

Specifically means giving human traits or behaviors to animals, gods, or objects, often in storytelling for children or folk tales.

• The animals in the story were anthropomorphized, acting and talking like humans.
• In some cultures, natural elements like the sun and moon are anthropomorphized as deities.

Describes giving a tangible or physical form to an idea, quality, or concept, often used in philosophy, art, and descriptions of people.

• She embodied the spirit of perseverance.
• The sculpture embodied the artist’s vision of freedom.

Refers to a person or thing representing a particular quality or idea in a very clear or strong way, often used in religious or dramatic contexts.

• He was kindness incarnate, always helping others.
• Some people believe she is evil incarnate.

Best used when describing the representation of an abstract quality or idea in a human form. It often has a mythical or symbolic connotation.

• She is kindness personified, always helping others without expecting anything in return.
• In Greek mythology, Athena is wisdom personified.

Typically used to describe someone or something that gives a tangible or visible form to an idea, quality, or feeling. It can be more literal than 'personified'.

• The teacher embodied patience, calmly explaining the topic multiple times to the students.
• The statue embodied the spirit of freedom.

Commonly used in religious or spiritual contexts to describe a deity or spirit taking on a physical, human form. It carries a sense of being made flesh.

• Many Christians believe that Jesus is God incarnated.
• The legend told of an ancient god who incarnated to save the world.

Used when something, often abstract like feelings or ideas, becomes clear or visible. It doesn’t necessarily have to take a human form.

• Her anxiety manifested in constant nail-biting.
• His leadership qualities manifested during the crisis.