embody

verb

em·​body im-ˈbä-dē How to pronounce embody (audio)
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 lifeA. M. Schlesinger born 1917
embodier noun

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 Its oversized design not only ensures comfort but adds a trendy, modern touch to your outfit, embodying a perfect blend of style and ease. Poppy Morgan, Rolling Stone, 24 Nov. 2023 This movie embodies almost every way in which time travel might fail to make sense. Jennifer Ouellette and Sean M. Carroll, Ars Technica, 24 Nov. 2023 And embodying the American Indigenous communities sliced through and displaced by the railway is singer-guitarist Pura Fé of the Tuscarora Indian Nation. Steve Hochman, SPIN, 20 Nov. 2023 Mulligan, according to Jamie, perfectly embodied her mother, who succumbed to cancer in 1978. Eric Andersson, Peoplemag, 20 Nov. 2023 The end devised for Miss Liza Jane, graciously embodied by Lewis, also feels like something taken from the Guide to Inspirational Characters. Peter Marks, Washington Post, 20 Nov. 2023 The portrait that emerges is one of dysfunction, with the pitfalls of hereditary power, whether formalized or embodied by political dynasties like the Kennedys, readily apparent. Meilan Solly, Smithsonian Magazine, 20 Nov. 2023 Of course, the doll embodies Carey's signature holiday look. Tanay Howard, Parents, 17 Nov. 2023 The new speaker, a Southern Baptist who embodies evangelical beliefs and priorities, has put his faith at the center of his political career. Robert Jimison, New York Times, 16 Nov. 2023 See More

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'embody.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1548, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of embody was circa 1548

Dictionary Entries Near embody

Cite this Entry

“Embody.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/embody. Accessed 4 Dec. 2023.

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

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