instantiate

American  

[in-stan-shee-eyt] / ɪnˈstæn ʃiˌeɪt /

verb (used with object)

instantiated, instantiating

1. to provide an instance of or concrete evidence in support of (a theory, concept, claim, or the like).

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instantiate British  

/ ɪnˈstænʃɪˌeɪt /

verb

1. (tr) to represent by an instance

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Other Word Forms

• instantiation noun
• instantiative adjective

Etymology

Origin of instantiate

First recorded in 1945–50; from Medieval Latin īnstantia “example supporting a general proposition,” from Latin īnstanti-, taken as a combining form of īnstantia “presence, urgency, urgent supplication, steadfastness”; see origin at instance, -ate ¹

Explanation

When you provide a specific example to illustrate an idea, you instantiate it. You say you believe in unicorns, but so far you haven't been able to instantiate that belief. Philosophers often use this term, which can be most simply understood as "represent by an instance." A multi-millionaire may choose to instantiate their wealth by driving an extremely expensive car and wearing $500 shoes. A photojournalist might attempt to instantiate the dangers of a particular intersection by taking photos of car accidents that occur there. Whenever you clarify or explain a concept with a real-world example of it, you instantiate that idea.

Example Sentences

Yet, in this dance between self-preservation and conformity, they instantiate the stereotypes they’re trying to escape.

From Seattle Times • Aug. 4, 2023

What sorts of catastrophes would instantiate an existential risk?

From Salon • Aug. 20, 2022

Here, taxidermy becomes a way to instantiate our relationship to bodies—both our own and those of others.

From The New Yorker • Aug. 21, 2019

It consists of billions of computers linked together using optical fibers and copper cables that rapidly instantiate specific connections using ultrafast communication protocols.

From Scientific American • Jan. 1, 2014

They instantiate this “mind file” in a nonbiological body that looks and moves like you and has the requisite subtlety and suppleness to pass for you.

From Slate • Nov. 16, 2012