edifying

1 of 2

adjective

ed·​i·​fy·​ing ˈe-də-ˌfī-iŋ How to pronounce edifying (audio)
Synonyms of edifying
: instructive or informative in a way that improves the mind or character
an edifying discussion
Much of Mr. Kernan's scholarship is impressive, and many of his thoughts on the history of language and literature are quite edifying.—Joe Queenan
edifyingly adverb

edifying

2 of 2

present participle of edify

Examples of edifying in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Adjective
In 2023, Nash saw the need for a more edifying and uplifting alternative. — The Washington Post, San Diego Union-Tribune, 22 Aug. 2026 And yet the office—its smells and politics, its grievances petty, existential, or edifying—must have made an impression. — Literary Hub, 13 Aug. 2026 Yet the episode provides another, less edifying lesson for Ukrainians. — Nick Paton Walsh, CNN Money, 22 July 2026 There are of course other edifying things. — Charlie Warzel, The Atlantic, 26 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for edifying

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1526, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of edifying was in 1526

Rhymes for edifying

See All Rhymes for edifying

Browse Nearby Words

edify
edifying
edifyingly
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Cite this Entry

“Edifying.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/edifying. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for edifying

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