1
as in demonstrating
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 illuminating
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 explaining
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 illustrating
The rain and the plumbing disasters and the reservation-system crises and Richie’s inability to cancel anyone’s dinner all come right on top of one another, illustrating how frightening and overwhelming the day has become.
—
Kathryn Vanarendonk,
Vulture,
26 June 2026
While investors concentrate on NVIDIA's staggering growth rate, an even more revealing figure resides in its supply commitments, illustrating a calculated strategy to satisfy demand that skeptics argue may not be viable.
—
Trefis Team,
Forbes.com,
26 June 2026
More than three months later, the convention adopted a system very similar to Wilson’s original idea—illustrating again his knack for getting there before everyone else.
—
Jesse Wegman,
The Atlantic,
20 June 2026
Much like the Snicko technology used in cricket, broadcasters could even show a graphic illustrating the precise moment that Isak had flicked the ball on.
—
Philip Buckingham,
New York Times,
15 June 2026
According to the team, the system generated enough formic acid to power a miniature diorama displayed at the pavilion, illustrating how an efficient artificial photosynthesis system could one day produce and store clean energy for use in household applications.
—
Bojan Stojkovski,
Interesting Engineering,
14 June 2026
The second prototype was a wearable bracelet that changed color by circulating fluid through adaptive materials, illustrating how the technology could be used in smart clothing or responsive displays that alter their appearance on demand.
—
New Atlas,
12 June 2026
Melliti’s performance is one of silent suffering, illustrating Fatima’s deference to her family.
—
Los Angeles Times,
12 June 2026
Suhaimi Abdullah | Getty Images A raft of companies has been shifting operations to Malaysia from Singapore in recent months, illustrating a broader trend of global mobility that has firms seeking jurisdictions with lower costs, tax incentives and access to larger markets.
—
Justina Lee,
CNBC,
10 June 2026
Kathryn Vanarendonk,
Vulture,
26 June 2026
While investors concentrate on NVIDIA's staggering growth rate, an even more revealing figure resides in its supply commitments, illustrating a calculated strategy to satisfy demand that skeptics argue may not be viable.
—
Trefis Team,
Forbes.com,
26 June 2026
More than three months later, the convention adopted a system very similar to Wilson’s original idea—illustrating again his knack for getting there before everyone else.
—
Jesse Wegman,
The Atlantic,
20 June 2026
Much like the Snicko technology used in cricket, broadcasters could even show a graphic illustrating the precise moment that Isak had flicked the ball on.
—
Philip Buckingham,
New York Times,
15 June 2026
According to the team, the system generated enough formic acid to power a miniature diorama displayed at the pavilion, illustrating how an efficient artificial photosynthesis system could one day produce and store clean energy for use in household applications.
—
Bojan Stojkovski,
Interesting Engineering,
14 June 2026
The second prototype was a wearable bracelet that changed color by circulating fluid through adaptive materials, illustrating how the technology could be used in smart clothing or responsive displays that alter their appearance on demand.
—
New Atlas,
12 June 2026
Melliti’s performance is one of silent suffering, illustrating Fatima’s deference to her family.
—
Los Angeles Times,
12 June 2026
Suhaimi Abdullah | Getty Images A raft of companies has been shifting operations to Malaysia from Singapore in recent months, illustrating a broader trend of global mobility that has firms seeking jurisdictions with lower costs, tax incentives and access to larger markets.
—
Justina Lee,
CNBC,
10 June 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for illustrating
Verb
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To prevail in a habeas petition, Maxwell would need to show that serious constitutional violations occurred during her trial or sentencing, or that significant new evidence has emerged demonstrating her innocence.
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The couple spent their weekend at the Royal Castle of Ciergnon, demonstrating the close relationship between the Japanese and Belgian royal families.
Verb
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Nothing can prepare you for the album art writ large on the inside flap, but the lavish haircut photos galore and commentary from folks like producer Bob Rock and then-bassist Jason Newsted are illuminating.
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In the background, the soft morning sunlight casts a warm glow, illuminating a spread of orange juice, tea, and a baguette sandwich with butter and jam.
Verb
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Infographic explaining Euclid's survey ESA The original image was captured in black and white, but color was added using observations from the Canada-France-Hawaii Telescope located in Hawaii.
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The original is a minor Harding work, Bacon said, explaining why judges might not have recognized Allan’s submission as a re-creation.
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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Most clarifying shampoos tend to be a little harsh and drying, but this one is gentle and nourishing.
Cite this Entry
“Illustrating.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/illustrating. Accessed 1 Jul. 2026.
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