verb
edify
ED-ih-fye/ˈedɪfaɪ/
To improve someone's understanding or moral character through instruction.
The educator edifies the learner by demonstrating how a prism separates light.
Etymology
Making a building became a metaphor for building up a person's character or faith. This figurative construction connects the original physical activity with moral or intellectual instruction.
In context
are you actively pursuing peace do you seek to edify your spouse do you wake up in the morning with this thought how can I build her up today or him up today
More examples
- These essays edify readers without telling them what to think.
- The pastor hopes to edify the congregation through weekly discussions.
- I felt edified by our conversation about fairness and responsibility.
Forms
edify · edifies · edified · edifying
edification noun — Moral or intellectual improvement gained through instruction.
Similar words
- instruct
- Focuses on conveying knowledge rather than improving moral character.
- enlighten
- Emphasizes gaining new understanding rather than developing moral character.