To embody something means to represent it in a clear, visible form, or to be a perfect example of a quality or idea. When we say someone embodies courage, we mean they demonstrate it through their actions and become a living example of bravery. A firefighter running into a burning building to save someone embodies bravery in that moment.

To embody an idea means to give it a body, to make it real and concrete. Martin Luther King Jr. embodied his vision of equality by leading peaceful protests and dedicating his life to the cause. A teacher who stays late to help struggling students embodies dedication to education.

You can embody abstract qualities like kindness, perseverance, or creativity. The Wright brothers embodied determination when they kept trying to build a working airplane despite repeated failures. A student who helps a new classmate feel welcome embodies compassion.

Sometimes we use embody to describe how something contains or includes everything essential about an idea. The Declaration of Independence embodies American ideals of freedom and self-governance. A great novel might embody the spirit of an entire era.

When you embody something, you become a living example of it. Your actions make the abstract concept real and visible to everyone around you.