An illustration is a decoration, interpretation or visual explanation of a text, concept or process,^[1] designed for integration in published media, such as posters, flyers, magazines, books, teaching materials, animations, video games and films.

The origin of the word “illustration” is late Middle English (in the sense ‘illumination; spiritual or intellectual enlightenment’): via Old French from Latin illustratio(n- ), from the verb illustrate.
Contemporary illustration uses a wide range of styles and techniques, including (but not limited to) drawing, painting, printmaking, collage, montage, digital design, multimedia, 3D modelling. Most illustrators work on a freelance basis.
Depending on the purpose, illustration may be expressive, stylised, “realistic” or highly technical.