embody

[em-bod-ee]

verb (used with object)

embodied, embodying 

1. to give a concrete form to; express, personify, or exemplify in concrete form.

   to embody an idea in an allegorical painting.

2. to provide with a body incarnate; make corporeal.

   to embody a spirit.

3. to collect into or include in a body; organize; incorporate.

4. to embrace or comprise.

embody

/ ɪmˈbɒdɪ /

verb

1. to give a tangible, bodily, or concrete form to (an abstract concept)

2. to be an example of or express (an idea, principle, etc), esp in action

   his gentleness embodies a Christian ideal

3. (often foll by in) to collect or unite in a comprehensive whole, system, etc; comprise; include

   all the different essays were embodied in one long article

4. to invest (a spiritual entity) with a body or with bodily form; render incarnate

Other Word Forms

• embodier noun
• preembody verb (used with object)
• reembody verb (used with object)
• embodiment noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of embody¹

First recorded in 1540–50; em- ¹ + body

Example Sentences

Rep. Nancy Mace, R-S.C., has been embodying the dilemma in a highly dramatic fashion, as is her habit.

From Salon

"Major international sporting events embody a spirit of unity and dialogue, transcending differences and divisions," said a statement from world cycling's governing body.

From BBC

I think fun is an important thing to embody in what you do, that and some kind of silliness or fearlessness, that’s what turns people on, so I’m all for that.

From Los Angeles Times

By creating two characters who embody that, the story can work at a collective level and an internal one.

From Los Angeles Times

He’s also played by Cena, a retiring professional wrestler who embodies the white American male ideal – brawny, handsome, a good guy.

From Salon

Related Words

• demonstrate 
• epitomize 
• exemplify 
• exhibit 
• express 
• illustrate 
• incorporate 
• manifest 
• mirror 
• personify 
• realize 
• stand for 
• symbolize 
• typify