1
as in to demonstrate
to show or make clear by using examples
she illustrated her point with a story about her experiences as a field anthropologist
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in to illuminate
to supplement with pictorial matter for the purpose of explanation or decoration
lavishly illustrated the monograph on Caravaggio with color plates
Synonyms & Similar Words
3
as in to explain
to make plain or understandable
the recent devastating fire illustrates the need for improved safety codes
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of illustrate
The images below illustrate how England set up for their first corner of the game, leading to Luka Modric’s foul on Noni Madueke and a penalty for Tuchel’s side.
—
Thom Harris,
New York Times,
23 June 2026
Brands like Orange House illustrate how innovation in formulation and design can align performance with environmental responsibility.
—
Zachary Reed,
Mercury News,
23 June 2026
An exhibit at the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library used AI to illustrate how visitors might look in TR's cowboy garb.
—
Lee Cowan,
CBS News,
21 June 2026
That finding, from a recent survey, illustrates a perennial gap between expectations and reality for American retirees.
—
Daniel De Visé,
USA Today,
20 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for illustrate
Thom Harris,
New York Times,
23 June 2026
Brands like Orange House illustrate how innovation in formulation and design can align performance with environmental responsibility.
—
Zachary Reed,
Mercury News,
23 June 2026
An exhibit at the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library used AI to illustrate how visitors might look in TR's cowboy garb.
—
Lee Cowan,
CBS News,
21 June 2026
That finding, from a recent survey, illustrates a perennial gap between expectations and reality for American retirees.
—
Daniel De Visé,
USA Today,
20 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for illustrate
Recent Examples of Synonyms for illustrate
Verb
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Ukraine’s ability to strike military production facilities, fuel depots, ammunition storage sites and critical infrastructure hundreds of miles from the front lines has demonstrated a remarkable evolution in its strategic capabilities.
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To earn belief, leaders must protect early adopters, welcome critical feedback, and demonstrate value through real-world examples.
Verb
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The Strawberry Moon will soon illuminate the night sky, but don't expect the moon to look like an actual fruit.
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Forsythia is a bright, charming harbinger of spring, illuminating the dull gray winter landscape with its vibrant yellow blooms.
Verb
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Watching the hearing via Zoom from a prison holding room, Powell wiped his eyes and sighed heavily as Cribbs once again recited the facts of the case before Judge Rachelle Carnesale, explaining when Walton was fatally shot.
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When the Dodgers played here last month, a fan posted a picture of the menu board and explained what FTD stood for.
Verb
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In addition to clarifying one claim, NYT also agreed to voluntarily dismiss two claims of contributory copyright infringement and trademark dilution against all defendants.
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Rich Bornstein, founder of Bornstein Media, helps leaders clarify their story before the camera turns on.
Cite this Entry
“Illustrate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/illustrate. Accessed 28 Jun. 2026.
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