What does "edify" mean?

Edify: To instruct and improve, especially in moral and religious knowledge; to teach. It does not appear probable that our dispute [about miracles] would either edify or enlighten the public. Gibbon.

Additional senses

  1. 2.To teach or persuade. [Obs.] Bacon.
  2. 3.To improve. [R.] Swift.

Sources