WordGarden.iomanifestation
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /mˌænɪfɪstˈeɪʃən/
US
- /ˌmænəfɛˈsteɪʃən/
Meanings
Noun
a visible sign or expression of something else
the practice or result of trying to bring a desired outcome into reality through focused thought or spiritual intention
a symptom or clinical sign by which a disease or condition appears
Beyond the definition
A manifestation is the way something shows itself in a clear, visible, or real form. You might talk about anger showing up as a raised voice, or a rash being a manifestation of an allergy. It can be something physical, emotional, or social.
The word comes from the Latin manifestus, meaning clear or obvious. You might see a manifestation of support at a rally, where a crowd turns feelings into action. You could also say that months of hard work found their manifestation in good grades. In some spiritual settings, the word is used for a hoped-for result becoming real, as in "a manifestation of her positive thinking."
The word "manifestation" refers to the act of something becoming apparent or real—a visible or perceptible outward expression. It's about taking shape, making itself known, or being revealed.
You can see manifestations in many different contexts. In medicine, a symptom is often described as a manifestation of an illness; fever and cough are ways the disease shows itself. In public life, a large march or rally can be a manifestation of public opinion, with people visibly expressing what they believe. In daily life, patience may find manifestation in calm actions, and stress may find manifestation in restless habits.
The word also carries weight in spiritual or philosophical contexts. In these areas, "manifestation" often refers to bringing something into being through thought, belief, or intention—turning dreams into reality. This usage suggests an active process where inner desires become outwardly expressed.
Historically, "manifest" (the root of manifestation) meant clear and plainly seen. This original meaning still resonates today; a manifestation is always something that's evident, whether it's a physical sign, a behavioral trait, or the realization of a long-held goal.
So, whether you're describing a scientific symptom, a public demonstration, or the fulfillment of a dream, "manifestation" points to something becoming visible, real, and known.
Examples
- 1
Public protest
The protests were a public manifestation of people's anger.
- 2
Silent reaction
Her silence was the clearest manifestation of her disappointment.
- 3
Physical symptoms
Headaches and stomach pain can be physical manifestations of stress.
- 4
Civic pride
The new museum is a visible manifestation of the city's renewed confidence.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Policy problem
This policy is only the latest manifestation of a much deeper problem.
- 6
Self-help practice
She kept a manifestation journal and wrote down the goals she wanted to attract into her life.
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
- symptom
- materialization
- outward form
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- a manifestation of grief
- physical manifestation
- outward manifestation
- manifestation of disease
Word family
Explore
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- manifestationnoun
Forms
- manifestationspluralnoun