Definition

1. Verb:
   • To represent or express something abstract in tangible form: To give a concrete, physical, or visible form to an idea, quality, or feeling.
   • To represent, as of a character on stage: To act out or personify a role or character.
   • To represent in bodily form; to incarnate: To be a perfect example or manifestation of a particular quality, idea, or principle.

Usage and Examples

• To represent an abstract concept:
  • The new constitution embodies the ideals of freedom and equality.
  • Her leadership embodies the spirit of innovation.
• To represent a character:
  • The actor embodied the role of the king with great authority.
• To incarnate or be a perfect example:
  • For many, he embodies the virtues of a true hero.
  • This single mistake seemed to embody all the failures of the project.

Advanced Usage

• "to be embodied in": To have one's essence or principle contained and expressed within something.
  • The company's philosophy is embodied in its commitment to customer service.
• "embodying" (present participle as adjective): Serving as a tangible representation.
  • She is the embodying force behind the movement's success.

Variants and Related Words

• Embodiment (noun): A tangible or visible form of an idea, quality, or feeling.
  • She is the very embodiment of grace.
• Re-embody (verb): To embody again or in a new form.
  • The artist sought to re-embody the classic myth in a modern setting.

Synonyms

• Personify: To represent (a quality or concept) by a figure in human form.
• Incarnate: To embody or represent (a deity, spirit, or quality) in human form.
• Exemplify: To be a typical example of.
• Manifest: To display or show (a quality or feeling) by one's acts or appearance.

Antonyms

• Abstract: Existing in thought or as an idea but not having a physical or concrete existence.
• Conceal: To keep from sight; to hide.

Related Phrases and Constructions

• "embody the principles of": To perfectly represent the fundamental rules or beliefs of something.
  • The school aims to embody the principles of inclusive education.
• "embody in law": To give formal expression to something within a legal framework.
  • These rights were finally embodied in law last year.

Verb

1. represent or express something abstract in tangible form
   • This painting embodies the feelings of the Romantic period
2. represent, as of a character on stage
   • Derek Jacobi was Hamlet
3. represent in bodily form
   • He embodies all that is evil wrong with the system
   • The painting substantiates the feelings of the artist