Simple Definition of manifest

from our Learner's Dictionary

manifest

1 of 2

adjective

formal
1
: able to be seen : clearly shown or visible
Their sadness was manifest in their faces.
His love for literature is manifest in his large library.
There was manifest confusion in the streets.
2
: easy to understand or recognize
The truth was manifest [=(more commonly) obvious] to everyone but me.
a manifest injustice

manifest

2 of 2

verb

manifests; manifested; manifesting
formal : to show (something) clearly
Both sides have manifested a stubborn unwillingness to compromise.
Their religious beliefs are manifested in every aspect of their lives.
Love manifests [=reveals] itself in many different ways. [=love appears in many ways]
Her behavior problems began manifesting themselves soon after she left home.

Cite this Entry

“Manifest.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/manifest. Accessed 17 Apr. 2026.

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