1
as in to demonstrate
to show or make clear by using examples
she illustrated her point with a story about her experiences as a field anthropologist
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in to illuminate
to supplement with pictorial matter for the purpose of explanation or decoration
lavishly illustrated the monograph on Caravaggio with color plates
Synonyms & Similar Words
3
as in to explain
to make plain or understandable
the recent devastating fire illustrates the need for improved safety codes
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of illustrate
The last few weeks have illustrated the volatility of an energy system rooted in oil.
—
Killian Duborg, Hartford Courant, 31 Mar. 2026
But either way, that confession illustrates exactly where the Dolphins are headed going into next week’s start of the offseason training program, which begins with weight lifting and conditioning work.
—Omar Kelly, Miami Herald, 31 Mar. 2026
Kiros’s records speak for themselves and illustrate how extreme radical candidates are not only out of touch with Colorado Democrats but also with our state values, too.
—Doug Friednash, Denver Post, 30 Mar. 2026
The Easter scene depicts a central moment in Christianity, illustrating the belief that Jesus rose from the dead after being buried in a tomb following his crucifixion.
—Lucy Notarantonio, MSNBC Newsweek, 30 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for illustrate
Killian Duborg, Hartford Courant, 31 Mar. 2026
But either way, that confession illustrates exactly where the Dolphins are headed going into next week’s start of the offseason training program, which begins with weight lifting and conditioning work.
—Omar Kelly, Miami Herald, 31 Mar. 2026
Kiros’s records speak for themselves and illustrate how extreme radical candidates are not only out of touch with Colorado Democrats but also with our state values, too.
—Doug Friednash, Denver Post, 30 Mar. 2026
The Easter scene depicts a central moment in Christianity, illustrating the belief that Jesus rose from the dead after being buried in a tomb following his crucifixion.
—Lucy Notarantonio, MSNBC Newsweek, 30 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for illustrate
Recent Examples of Synonyms for illustrate
Verb
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The Union League, in contrast, was for those who could demonstrate their commitment to the national cause, and its clubhouse quickly became a place to get the latest news from the Southern battlefields.—
Michael Gorra,
The New York Review of Books,
4 Apr. 2026
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When lyrics reference the specific facts of an alleged crime, and prosecutors can demonstrate they were intended as literal statements, not artistic expression — that evidence remains admissible.—
Ivan J. Bates,
Baltimore Sun,
4 Apr. 2026
Verb
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Once stationary, turn off all lights except the hazard flashers, engage the emergency brake, and release the brake pedal to ensure your tail lights are not illuminated, reducing the risk of other drivers colliding with your stationary vehicle.—
NC Weather Bot,
Charlotte Observer,
31 Mar. 2026
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Gomez opted for a true neutral petal mani, which illuminates her natural nail bed and adds the subtlest flush of pink.—
Grace McCarty,
Glamour,
30 Mar. 2026
Verb
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Using a synesthetic logic all his own, Torres explains why Dwayne (the Rock) Johnson is orange, Catholicism is purple, and navy blue is the nefarious color that secretly runs the world.—
Richard Brody,
New Yorker,
3 Apr. 2026
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For an overview of small business tax responsibilities, see IRS Publication 583, which explains general filing and recordkeeping requirements.—
Nancy Ashburn,
Encyclopedia Britannica,
2 Apr. 2026
Verb
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If a client presentation collides with family plans, clarify expectations early and ask for support where needed, then show leadership by offering a fair, workable path.—
Tarot.com,
Sun Sentinel,
3 Apr. 2026
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At that time, Netflix adjusted its terms to state that contract terms could one day change due to technological, security, or regulatory needs, to clarify clauses, or to provide changes to the service, Il Sole 24 Ore reported.—
Scharon Harding,
ArsTechnica,
3 Apr. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Illustrate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/illustrate. Accessed 6 Apr. 2026.
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