embody

1 of 2

verb

em·​body im-ˈbä-dē How to pronounce embody (audio)
embodied; embodying
Synonyms of embody

transitive verb

1
: to give a body to (a spirit) : incarnate
2
a
: to deprive of spirituality
b
: to make concrete and perceptible
3
: to cause to become a body or part of a body : incorporate
4
: to represent in human or animal form : personify
… men who greatly embodied the idealism of American life …—A. M. Schlesinger born 1917
embodier noun

embodier

2 of 2

noun

em·​bod·​i·​er
ə̇mˈbädēə(r), 
em- -diə-
plural -s
: one that embodies

Synonyms of embody

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Verb

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Examples of embody in a Sentence

Verb The legislature embodied a revenue provision in the new law. they must embody their ideas in substantial institutions if they are to survive
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Verb
In this feat, Balogun embodied the notion that America is an ideal, not a bloodline. — Marcus Thompson Ii, New York Times, 2 July 2026 Zendaya embodied Greek goddess glamour at the world premiere of The Odyssey in London. — Hannah Malach, InStyle, 6 July 2026 In a conversation with The Times, Amaya embodied the corporate synergy that has piqued interest in his show. — Carlos De Loera, Los Angeles Times, 7 July 2026 The glowing bride beautifully embodied the irresistibly feminine silhouette for her special day. — Stephanie Sengwe, PEOPLE, 4 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for embody

Word History

First Known Use

Verb

1548, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of embody was in 1548

Rhymes for embody

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Browse Nearby Words

embodiment
embody
embog
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Embody.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/embody. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

embody

verb
em·​body im-ˈbäd-ē How to pronounce embody (audio)
embodied; embodying
1
: to give definite form to
embodied her ideas in suitable words
2
: to cause to become a body or a part of a body or system
the Constitution embodies the fundamental laws of the United States
3
: to represent in visible form
a leader who embodies courage
embodier noun

More from Merriam-Webster on embody

Nglish: Translation of embody for Spanish Speakers

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