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REFERENCE

illustration

n.
US //ˌɪɫəˈstɹeɪʃən// UK //ˌɪləstɹˈeɪʃən// il·lus·tra·tion
  1. 1 a picture (n.)
    B1 Intermediate

    a picture, drawing, or diagram in a book, magazine, or advertisement.

    a visual representation, such as a drawing or photograph, intended to decorate or clarify a text.

    Example

    The children's book has a beautiful illustration of a dragon on every page.

    Example

    The textbook includes a detailed illustration of the human heart to help students identify the different valves and chambers.
  2. 2 an example (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    an example or story that helps explain an idea or prove a point.

    an instance, example, or comparison used to make a concept clearer or more easily understood.

    Example

    This story is a perfect illustration of why we should always tell the truth.

    Example

    The professor provided a vivid illustration of the economic theory by describing the recent collapse of the local housing market.
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  1. 3 the act of explaining (n.)
    C1 Advanced Formal

    the act of making something clear or easy to understand.

    the process or act of clarifying a statement or concept. Often uncountable in this abstract sense.

    Example

    The teacher used a diagram for the illustration of how the machine works.

    Example

    The report was written with such clarity that further illustration of the primary findings was deemed unnecessary by the board.
    • obscuration
  2. 4 insurance projection (n.)
    C2 Proficiency Technical Formal Law

    a document showing how much money you might pay or get back from an insurance plan.

    a calculated projection of future premiums, cash values, and death benefits for a life insurance policy.

    Example

    The agent gave me an illustration showing how my savings might grow over twenty years.

    Example

    The policy illustration clearly outlines the guaranteed and non-guaranteed elements of the life insurance contract based on current interest rates.

    Usage

    Commonly used in the financial services and insurance industries.
Origin

From Middle French illustration, from Latin illūstrātiō, from illūstrō (“I illustrate”). By surface analysis, illustrate + -ion.

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