embody

verb

em·​body im-ˈbä-dē How to pronounce embody (audio)
embodied; embodying

transitive verb

1
: to give a body to (a spirit) : incarnate
2
a
: to deprive of spirituality
b
: to make concrete and perceptible
3
: to cause to become a body or part of a body : incorporate
4
: to represent in human or animal form : personify
men who greatly embodied the idealism of American lifeA. M. Schlesinger born 1917
embodier noun

Examples of embody in a Sentence

The legislature embodied a revenue provision in the new law. they must embody their ideas in substantial institutions if they are to survive
Recent Examples on the Web Davido’s journey from humble beginnings to global acclaim embodies the transformative power of music. Walaa Elsiddig, Billboard, 21 Mar. 2024 Hassan has been working for decades collecting and creating artefacts that embody his beloved Marrakech through portraiture. Caterina De Biasio, Vogue, 20 Mar. 2024 Paige embodies all qualities of a mature and passionate artist and dancer. Heide Janssen, Orange County Register, 17 Mar. 2024 Lilly Pulitzer Matching Resort White Pb Anniversary Toile Dresses Lilly Pulitzer is known for its bright, eye-catching pieces that embody the vibrant, colorful essence of spring. Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 16 Mar. 2024 This collection is a harmonious blend of classic finesse and contemporary chic, offering everything from suave suits that command the room's attention to leisure pieces that embody effortless sophistication. Hilary Tetenbaum, USA TODAY, 16 Mar. 2024 Twelve years on from embodying Wisteria Lane’s housewife Gabrielle Solis, Longoria has gone on to become a director, the CEO of her own production company, UnbeliEVAble Entertainment and a political activist. Orianna Rosa Royle, Fortune, 15 Mar. 2024 The treat embodies Librae’s approach to baking, which draws together flavors from across the Middle East and countless other baking traditions. The Bon Appétit Staff & Contributors, Bon Appétit, 13 Mar. 2024 Behind it all is Caitlin Clark, a University of Iowa senior who embodies the future of the game. Kendra Nordin Beato, The Christian Science Monitor, 8 Mar. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'embody.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1548, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of embody was circa 1548

Dictionary Entries Near embody

Cite this Entry

“Embody.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/embody. Accessed 29 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

embody

verb
em·​body im-ˈbäd-ē How to pronounce embody (audio)
embodied; embodying
1
: to give definite form to
embodied her ideas in suitable words
2
: to cause to become a body or a part of a body or system
the Constitution embodies the fundamental laws of the United States
3
: to represent in visible form
a leader who embodies courage
embodier noun

More from Merriam-Webster on embody

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