embody

verb

em·​body im-ˈbä-dē 

embodied; embodying

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

Synonyms of embody

• integrate
• incorporate
• assimilate

Examples of embody in a Sentence

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

In the series, Bardem portrays Max Cady, the unpredictable, charismatic ex-con embodied in 1991's Cape Fear by De Niro, who earned an Oscar nomination for his performance in the film. —Wesley Stenzel, Entertainment Weekly, 25 May 2026

In Silva, though, Manchester City is losing someone who embodies the most glittering period of success in the club’s entire history. —Graham Ruthven, Forbes.com, 24 May 2026

Players like Julian Dicks and Paolo Di Canio embodied commitment at West Ham. —Roshane Thomas, New York Times, 24 May 2026

Just as each star sign has its own unique characteristics, every architectural style embodies different traits, supports a certain lifestyle, and exudes a particular feeling. —Maria Sabella, Better Homes & Gardens, 23 May 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1548, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for embody

• blackbody
• samadhi
• somebody
• afterbody
• antibody
• busybody
• everybody
• autoantibody
• bawdy
• body
• gaudy
• khadi

Kids Definition

embody

verb

em·​body im-ˈbäd-ē 

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