Definition of "illustrate" in English

verb

1. (figurative) To clarify something by giving, or serving as, an example or a comparison.

   • We illustrate our definitions by including quotations or simple examples.

2. To provide a book or other publication with pictures, diagrams or other explanatory or decorative features.

   • The economics textbook was illustrated with many graphs.

3. (obsolete) To shed light upon.

4. (obsolete) To give renown or honour to; to make illustrious.