Personify examples Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈpəsərəfai ɪg zɑmps/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A figurative representation or embodiment of a concept, abstract idea, or quality, often used in literature, art, or philosophy to convey meaning or express a particular perspective.

Examples

• The character of the villain in the play personified the evil within mankind.
• The artist’s sculpture personified the struggle for freedom.

Synonyms

• Symbol
• Representation

Antonyms

• Abstraction
• Generalization

Etymology

The word “personify” originates from the Latin “persóna,” meaning “mask” or “person,” and the Greek suffix “-fy,” indicating a figurative or metaphorical representation.

Usage Notes

In literary and artistic contexts, personify is often used to convey a deep emotional connection or symbolic meaning. In everyday language, it can be used more broadly to describe a representation or embodiment of an idea or quality.

Cultural References

The concept of personifying abstract ideas is common in literature, art, and philosophy. Notable examples include the character of Death in Neil Gaiman’s “The Sandman” and the personification of Liberty in the Statue of Liberty.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

A face for the time of day (to personify the clock)

Collocations

the embodiment of, the incarnation of, the representation of

Frequency of Use

The word “personify” is relatively uncommon in everyday conversation but is more frequent in literary and artistic contexts.

Common Misspellings

Personalize, Personnalize, Peronify