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

• elucidative
• exegetical
• exegetic
• explanative
• explanatory
• explicative
• explicatory
• expositive
• expository
• illuminative
• interpretative
• interpretive

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

Hypothetical examples have been provided for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as advice designed to meet the particular needs of an individual’s situation. —William Jones, USA Today, 15 May 2025

The book marks the second in Barnett's retelling releases, following 2022's The Three Billy Goats Gruff, which featured illustrative work from Jon Klassen and became a bestseller. —Brenton Blanchet, People.com, 13 May 2025

The 2024 presidential election in New Jersey is particularly illustrative, with the state shifting from D+16% to D+6% between 2020 and 2024. —Chris Stirewalt, The Hill, 7 Mar. 2025

The earthquake some recent studies of evolving American cultural attitudes have produced is illustrative ... —Noah Rothman, National Review, 27 Feb. 2025

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