Part of Speech

Adjective, Verb

Pronunciation

/ɪnˈkɑːneɪt/

Definitions

• Adjective: Embodied in flesh; given a bodily form.
• Verb: To give a human or physical form to something abstract or spiritual.

Usage Examples

• The deity was said to incarnate in human form to walk among mortals.
• Her kindness seemed to incarnate in every action she took.
• The spirit of the law was incarnate in the actions of the brave leaders.

Etymology

From Latin "incarnatus," meaning "made flesh," derived from "in-" (into) + "caro" (flesh). The term originally referred to the act of embodying a deity or spirit in human form.

Synonyms

• Embodied
• Personified
• Manifested
• Materialized
• Fleshly

Antonyms

• Abstract
• Disembodied
• Immaterial
• Incorporeal
• Nonphysical

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The pronunciation of "incarnate" is consistent across English-speaking regions. However, in certain dialects, the emphasis may shift slightly. In some accents, the second syllable may be more stressed, while in others, the emphasis might fall on the first syllable.

Historical Usage

In Western religious and philosophical texts, "incarnate" has long been used to describe the physical embodiment of a divine being, particularly in Christianity where the concept of God becoming human in the form of Jesus Christ is central. The word later gained broader usage in literature and philosophy to describe any abstract idea or quality made tangible or perceptible.

Cultural Nuances

In many cultures, the idea of something being "incarnate" is often linked to spirituality or divine manifestation. The term evokes a sense of reverence when used in religious contexts but can also be applied in more secular or artistic settings to describe the materialization of abstract concepts. In modern usage, "incarnate" is often associated with the vivid representation of ideas in visual or physical forms.

More Information

The term "incarnate" carries significant weight in both spiritual and philosophical contexts, referring to the embodiment of a non-physical entity in a tangible form. Whether describing deities or abstract ideas made manifest, the word emphasizes the act of making the intangible, tangible. Over time, "incarnate" has expanded beyond religious use to encompass broader meanings in art, literature, and everyday life.