1. A visual representation (a picture or diagram) that is used to make some subject more pleasing or easier to understand
   "The textbook included helpful illustrations of complex biological processes"
    
2. Artwork that helps make something clear or attractive
   "The textbook included colourful illustrations to explain complex concepts"
    
3. Showing by example
   "The teacher used several illustrations to explain the concept";
   - exemplification
    
4. An item or case that is typical of a class or group
   "Her career is a perfect illustration of success through persistence";
   - example, instance, representative, exemplum

Derived forms: illustrations

Type of: art, artwork, demo, demonstration, graphics, information, nontextual matter, representation

Encyclopedia: Illustration