English Lexicon

Edify

/ˈɛd.ɪ.faɪ/
verbCEFR C2 (Proficient)Top #14500 frequency
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Comprehensive Definitions & Senses

2 senses
As verb
  1. 1

    To instruct or improve someone morally, intellectually, or spiritually.

    "The wise teacher sought to edify her students with stories of perseverance and empathy."
  2. 2

    To build up or strengthen in faith or character.

    "The community gathered for a sermon designed to edify the congregation."

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Antonyms & Contrasting Words (1)

Linguistic Origin & Historical Etymology

Derived from the Latin verb 'aedificare', meaning to build or construct (from 'aedes', a temple or dwelling, plus 'facere', to make). In Middle English, the term was adopted via Old French 'edifier' and initially retained its literal architectural sense of building physically before shifting metaphorically toward instructing and uplifting the moral or spiritual mind.

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