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
That is especially illustrated in the backstory of a young Army translator Howie (Leo Woodall), who is based on a real person as well.
—
Katie Walsh, Twin Cities, 1 Feb. 2026
The director puts a lot on her characters’ shoulders to illustrate how unsupported and isolated illness and disability can be.
—Lisa Kennedy, Variety, 31 Jan. 2026
There are few families that illustrate this better than the Bryans.
—Savannah Silliman, Florida Times-Union, 31 Jan. 2026
The comic book series is illustrated by Vanesa Del Rey and currently has a sequel, The Exorcism at Buckingham Palace, in release.
—Matt Grobar, Deadline, 30 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for illustrate
Katie Walsh, Twin Cities, 1 Feb. 2026
The director puts a lot on her characters’ shoulders to illustrate how unsupported and isolated illness and disability can be.
—Lisa Kennedy, Variety, 31 Jan. 2026
There are few families that illustrate this better than the Bryans.
—Savannah Silliman, Florida Times-Union, 31 Jan. 2026
The comic book series is illustrated by Vanesa Del Rey and currently has a sequel, The Exorcism at Buckingham Palace, in release.
—Matt Grobar, Deadline, 30 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for illustrate
Recent Examples of Synonyms for illustrate
Verb
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Mayor Mamdani can prove his critics wrong, and demonstrate his commitment to his principles, by making traditional Medicare a central pillar of his health policy.—
Marianne Pizzitola,
New York Daily News,
31 Jan. 2026
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Each shot is composed with intention and elegance, and editor George Cragg demonstrates a keen understanding of which moments merit long, unbroken takes and when cuts are necessary.—
Christian Zilko,
IndieWire,
31 Jan. 2026
Verb
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Once stationary, deactivate all lights except the hazard flashers, engage the emergency brake, and release the brake pedal to ensure your tail lights are not illuminated, reducing the risk of other drivers colliding with your stationary vehicle.—
NC Weather Bot,
Charlotte Observer,
26 Jan. 2026
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Fireworks illuminated the pre-dawn sky, and then, characters waved us by.—
Kimberly Zapata,
Parents,
26 Jan. 2026
Verb
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Whitwam explains that Catalina mule deer hunting was traditionally reserved for island residents and their guests, or hunters who were willing to book with a local guide.—
Kris Millgate,
Outdoor Life,
6 Feb. 2026
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Patriots wide receiver Stefon Diggs argued Brady’s role as a sports network broadcaster — not just a Patriots icon — explains his neutral stance.—
Chantz Martin,
FOXNews.com,
6 Feb. 2026
Verb
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Within days of the executive order, OPM issued formal government-wide implementation guidance clarifying how agencies should identify and reclassify covered positions.—
James Broughel,
Forbes.com,
30 Jan. 2026
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Speaking to reporters after the debate, Stratton sought to clarify her earlier comment suggesting Border Patrol would remain in place if ICE were abolished.—
Rick Pearson,
Chicago Tribune,
30 Jan. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Illustrate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/illustrate. Accessed 6 Feb. 2026.
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