epitomize

verb

epit·​o·​mize i-ˈpi-tə-ˌmīz How to pronounce epitomize (audio)
epitomized; epitomizing
Synonyms of epitomizenext

transitive verb

1
: to serve as the typical or ideal example of
2
: to make or give an epitome of

Synonyms

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Examples of epitomize in a Sentence

This student's struggles epitomize the trouble with our schools. his personal code of behavior on the playing field is epitomized by his favorite saying, “Nice guys finish last”
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Listen to this article Lalas Abubakar’s legacy as a Colorado Rapids defender is epitomized by effort. — Braidon Nourse, The Denver Post, 27 Feb. 2025 Survivor 47 The 47th season of Survivor beautifully blended the emotional blindsides of old with new-age strategy, epitomized by the instantly infamous Operation: Italy. — Skyler Trepel, People.com, 25 Feb. 2025 Kennedy, whose Senate confirmation hearing is Jan. 29, 2025, epitomizes the new American political ethos of populism and anti-intellectualism, or the idea that people hold negative feelings toward not just scientific research but those who produce it. — Dominik Stecuła, The Conversation, 29 Jan. 2025 The rival governors, both stars in their respective parties, epitomize the national political divide as individual states brace for Trump’s Day 1 agenda. — Alexis Simendinger, The Hill, 20 Jan. 2025 See All Example Sentences for epitomize

Word History

First Known Use

1594, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of epitomize was in 1594

Rhymes for epitomize

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Cite this Entry

“Epitomize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/epitomize. Accessed 24 Mar. 2025.

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Kids Definition

epitomize

verb
epit·​o·​mize i-ˈpit-ə-ˌmīz How to pronounce epitomize (audio)
epitomized; epitomizing
: to make or serve as an epitome of

More from Merriam-Webster on epitomize

Nglish: Translation of epitomize for Spanish Speakers

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