illustration

noun

ˌi-lə-ˈstrā-shən How to pronounce illustration (audio)
Definition of illustrationnext
1
as in diagram
something that visually explains or decorates a text this book on birds has gorgeous illustrations

Synonyms & Similar Words

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2
as in explanation
a statement that makes something clear forced to give several illustrations until she was understood

Synonyms & Similar Words
3
as in depiction
a two-dimensional design intended to look like a person or thing the doctor sketched an illustration to explain the procedure to the patient

Synonyms & Similar Words
4
as in example
one of a group or collection that shows what the whole is like chose one essay as an illustration of the high quality of the collection

Synonyms & Similar Words

Synonym Chooser

How is the word illustration distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of illustration are case, example, instance, sample, and specimen. While all these words mean "something that exhibits distinguishing characteristics in its category," illustration applies to an instance offered as a means of clarifying or illuminating a general statement.

a telling illustration of Murphy's Law

Where would case be a reasonable alternative to illustration?

The meanings of case and illustration largely overlap; however, case is used to direct attention to a real or assumed occurrence or situation that is to be considered, studied, or dealt with.

a case of mistaken identity

When could example be used to replace illustration?

In some situations, the words example and illustration are roughly equivalent. However, example applies to a typical, representative, or illustrative instance or case.

a typical example of bureaucratic waste

When would instance be a good substitute for illustration?

While the synonyms instance and illustration are close in meaning, instance applies to any individual person, act, or thing that may be offered to illustrate or explain.

an instance of history repeating itself

In what contexts can sample take the place of illustration?

The words sample and illustration can be used in similar contexts, but sample implies a part or unit taken at random from a larger whole and so presumed to be typical of its qualities.

show us a sample of your work

When might specimen be a better fit than illustration?

While in some cases nearly identical to illustration, specimen applies to any example or sample whether representative or merely existent and available.

one of the finest specimens of the jeweler's art

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of illustration The Beverly Hilton also teamed up with local artist Henry Kaye to create original illustrations and designs that honor its legacy. —Jennifer Kester, Forbes.com, 21 July 2025 The cover is an illustration of Ohtani and his dog, who is holding a baseball in his mouth. —Oc Register, 18 July 2025 In this photo illustration, logo of Tesla is displayed on a mobile phone screen in front of the Indian flag in Ankara, Turkiye on November 28, 2023. —Dylan Butts, CNBC, 15 July 2025 At Home’s Icon glassware channels the same whimsical energy with playful Halloween motifs and vibrant illustrations, all at a cheaper price point. —Elizabeth Fogarty, Better Homes & Gardens, 11 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for illustration
Recent Examples of Synonyms for illustration
  1. diagram
  2. explanation
  3. depiction
  4. example
  5. graphic
  6. interpretation
  7. image
  8. visual
Noun
  • These diagrams along with real time industrial IoT data guide everything from daily operations to half billion dollar maintenance projects.
    — Charlie Fink, Forbes.com, 15 July 2025
  • Note: Data flow map is schematic, based on Rubin Observatory diagrams.
    — Jonathan Corum, New York Times, 19 June 2025
Definition of diagram
Noun
  • On the other hand, vague explanations or rigid policies may suggest pay inequities, poor planning, or a top-down management structure.
    — Kate Wieczorek, Forbes.com, 29 July 2025
  • Most questions are multiple-choice, but some seek explanations.
    — Steve Sadin, Chicago Tribune, 28 July 2025
Definition of explanation
Noun
  • The episode, which aired July 23, ruffled more than a few feathers with its depiction of President Donald Trump.
    — Alexis Simmerman, Austin American Statesman, 26 July 2025
  • The president was depicted similarly to South Park’s depiction of Saddam Hussein in its 1999 feature-length movie, South Park: Bigger, Longer and Uncut: ill-tempered, conniving and cruel.
    — Kevin Dolak, HollywoodReporter, 24 July 2025
Definition of depiction
Noun
  • For example, fructose (fruit sugar) is converted to glucose in the liver, and so is galactose (a component of milk sugar).
    — Bryant Stamford, The Courier-Journal, 25 July 2025
  • For example, the Bay View Neighborhood Association supports residents through advocacy and community improvements.
    — Quinn Clark, jsonline.com, 25 July 2025
Definition of example
Noun
  • After that, people who want to continue getting graphics drivers for their Nvidia GPUs, including newer models in the RTX 40- and 50-series, will need to upgrade to Windows 11.
    — Andrew Cunningham, ArsTechnica, 31 July 2025
  • Some prefer to wait in leaf litter or dead logs, and others like to scale tall grass or other vegetation, according to the Mayo Clinic. Unable to view our graphics?
    — Katie Wiseman, Louisville Courier Journal, 31 July 2025
Definition of graphic
Noun
  • There is probably truth in both the need story and opportunity story (which is my interpretation of Culbertson’s remarks).
    — Bill Conerly, Forbes.com, 1 Aug. 2025
  • The dog's startled reaction delighted Instagram users, who filled the comments with interpretations of the scene.
    — Maria Morava, MSNBC Newsweek, 30 July 2025
Definition of interpretation
Noun
  • Check out images of the iconic statue over the years.
    — Lorenzino Estrada, AZCentral.com, 29 July 2025
  • Unlike the Soviets, who attempted to dictate public perceptions by manically managing the images of their exploits, NASA made the risky decision to allow its project to unfurl on live television.
    — Franklin Foer, The Atlantic, 28 July 2025
Definition of image
Noun
  • The campaign utilizes storytelling, high-impact visuals and behind-the scenes content, and positions the brand at the intersection of sport, style and culture.
    — Lisa Lockwood, Footwear News, 28 July 2025
  • Her music, visuals, and merchandise became part of a larger narrative: that joy, style, and identity are not just aesthetic choices, but political acts.
    — Richard Fowler, Forbes.com, 27 July 2025
Definition of visual

Browse Nearby Words

illustrating
illustration
illustrational
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Illustration.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/illustration. Accessed 7 Aug. 2025.

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More from Merriam-Webster on illustration

Nglish: Translation of illustration for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about illustration

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