Definition

1. Noun:
   • A manifestation or embodiment of a deity, concept, or quality: In Hinduism, an "avatar" is the deliberate descent of a deity, most commonly Vishnu, to Earth in a physical form (human or animal). More broadly, it can refer to any person who perfectly represents or embodies an idea, principle, or quality.
   • A graphical representation of a user in a digital environment: In computing and online communities, an "avatar" is an icon or figure representing a particular person in a video game, internet forum, or virtual world.

Examples of Usage

• Noun (Divine/Embodiment):
  • In Hindu tradition, Krishna is a beloved avatar of the god Vishnu.
  • She was seen as the very avatar of compassion, always helping those in need.
• Noun (Digital Representation):
  • He spent an hour customizing his avatar for the new online game.
  • Please upload a picture to use as your forum avatar.

Advanced Usage

• "To be the avatar of something": To be the perfect or ultimate example of a particular quality, often an abstract one.
  • The ruthless dictator was the avatar of tyranny for an entire generation.

Variants and Related Words

• Avatara (n): The Sanskrit source word for "avatar," meaning "descent."
• Avatarhood (n): The state or condition of being an avatar.
• Incarnation (n): A person who embodies in the flesh a deity, spirit, or abstract quality; a very close synonym in the context of embodiment.

Synonyms

• Embodiment: A tangible or visible form of an idea, quality, or feeling.
• Incarnation: A person who embodies a deity or quality in the flesh.
• Personification: The representation of a thing or abstraction as a person.
• Epitome: A person or thing that is a perfect example of a particular quality or type.
• Icon (in digital contexts): A symbol or graphic representation on a screen.

Related Phrases

• Digital avatar: Specifically refers to the graphical representation used online.
• Avatar state (from specific media/franchises): A term from certain narratives (e.g., ) denoting a state of heightened power or connection for the avatar figure within that story's mythology.

Related Idioms

• To be the living avatar of [something]: An emphatic way to say someone is the perfect example.
  • With his unwavering integrity, he was the living avatar of honesty.

Noun

1. the manifestation of a Hindu deity (especially Vishnu) in human or superhuman or animal form
   • the Buddha is considered an avatar of the god Vishnu
2. a new personification of a familiar idea
   • the embodiment of hope
   • the incarnation of evil
   • the very avatar of cunning