# illustrator

/ˈɪɫəˌstɹeɪtɝ/ (US) · /ˈɪləstɹˌeɪtɐ/ (UK) · CEFR B1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/illustrator
Updated: 2026-05-06

## Definition

an artist who creates pictures for books, magazines, or advertisements. They use their art to help explain an idea or tell a story.

For teachers: an artist who specialises in creating visual representations intended for integration with text or other media. Often works on a freelance basis for publishing houses or advertising agencies.

## Examples

- The illustrator drew beautiful pictures for the children's book.
- After reading the manuscript, the illustrator created several sketches to show how the main characters might look.
- A skilled illustrator must not only possess technical artistic ability but also the narrative insight to translate a writer's abstract descriptions into compelling visual imagery.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.