illustrative

adjective

il·​lus·​tra·​tive i-ˈlə-strə-tiv 

also

ˈi-lə-ˌstrā- 

: serving, tending, or designed to illustrate

illustrative examples

art that is illustrative of provincial life

illustratively adverb

Synonyms of illustrative

• interpretive
• interpretative
• explanative
• illuminative
• explanatory

Examples of illustrative in a Sentence

an illustrative analogy in which the relationship between God and humanity is likened to that between a shepherd and his flock

Recent Examples on the Web

The crackdown is illustrative of an intensifying authoritarian consolidation under Erdoğan, who has been in power for more than two decades. — Ishaan Tharoor, New Yorker, 9 July 2026

Other early texts describe the Dao through illustrative anecdotes. — Michael Naparstek, The Conversation, 6 July 2026

Volkswagen's challenges are illustrative of the headwinds facing the broader European automotive industry, Luman said, citing challenges on the road to full electrification, competition with Chinese car brands and export problems in major markets. — Sam Meredith, CNBC, 2 July 2026

The illustrative nature of a comic is unparalleled in its ability to transport people. — Rob Salkowitz, Forbes.com, 26 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1643, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

illustrative

adjective

il·​lus·​tra·​tive il-ˈəs-trət-iv 

: serving or meant to illustrate

illustrative examples