Definition of: image

(im′ij) noun
1. A visible representation of something; a statue, picture, idol, etc.
2. Optics The picture or counterpart of an object produced by reflection or refraction, or the passage of rays through a small aperture. If such an image can be actually thrown on a surface as in a camera, it is a real image; but if it is visible only as in a mirror, it is a virtual image.
3. A natural resemblance; also, that which resembles something; counterpart.
4. A representation in the mind of something not perceived at the moment through the senses; a product of the reproductive imagination or memory, of things seen, heard, touched, etc., including the accompanying emotion.
5. A mental picture or idea: a false image of oneself.
6. The way in which a person or thing is popularly perceived or regarded, especially through the agency of the mass media, as television, magazines, etc.; public impression: a politician striving to improve his image; a distorted image of the U.S.
7. A metaphor or a simile that reproduces or suggests in words the form, color, aspect, or semblance of an object.
6. A symbol of anything; embodiment; type.
7. Telecom. The optical replica of a scene produced by a television camera.
8. Obs. An apparition.
—v.t. ·aged, ·ag·ing
1. To form a mental picture of; imagine.
2. To make a visible representation of; portray; delineate.
3. To mirror; reflect.
4. To describe vividly in speech or writing, as with images, figures of speech, etc.
5. To symbolize. [<OF <L imago <the base of imitari imitate] Synonyms (noun): conception, copy, effigy, emblem, figure, icon, idea, idol, likeness, picture, representation, semblance, similitude, shadow, statue. See FANCY, FIGURE, IDEA, MODEL, PICTURE, SIMILE.