edifying

adjective

ed·​i·​fy·​ing ˈe-də-ˌfī-iŋ 

: instructive or informative in a way that improves the mind or character

an edifying discussion

Much of Mr. Kernan's scholarship is impressive, and many of his thoughts on the history of language and literature are quite edifying.

—Joe Queenan

edifyingly adverb

Examples of edifying in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

For two decades, this edifying A&E docuseries has been lifting the veil of investigative work during that critical time frame. —James Mercadante, Entertainment Weekly, 4 Jan. 2026

Now that books are considered virtuous and edifying, moralists can’t persuade anyone to pick one up. —Adam Kirsch, The Atlantic, 2 Jan. 2026

Some are more edifying than practical; a few deliver on pleasure and technique in equal measure. —Hannah Goldfield, New Yorker, 20 Dec. 2025

But the Drama is also equally thrilling and edifying, much like the experience of witnessing Cardi’s rise and watching her maneuver celebrity, heartbreak and beef at the highest level. —Kyle Denis, Billboard, 25 Sep. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1526, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for edifying

• amplifying
• beautifying
• certifying
• clarifying
• classifying
• codifying
• crucifying
• falsifying
• fortifying
• glorifying
• gratifying
• horrifying