epitomize

verb

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

transitive verb

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

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 The painting epitomizes the primary colors and geometric rigidity of the de Stijl movement that Mondrian helped define. Alex Vadukul, New York Times, 3 May 2024 Jazz Fest epitomizes this, going beyond mere music to celebrate the vibrant soul of the Crescent City. Shelby Stewart, Essence, 2 May 2024 And an elegant mansion set behind gates on an elevated perch above winding Hampton Road, listed for $14.5 million with Ann Newton Cane and Michael Dreyfus of Sotheby’s International Realty, epitomizes the gracious lifestyle Piedmont offers its almost 12,000 residents today. Demetrius Simms, Robb Report, 2 May 2024 Today’s great reads (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times) Along the 110 Freeway, a set of encampments built from repurposed housing materials epitomize the L.A. homelessness crisis. Ryan Fonseca, Los Angeles Times, 22 Apr. 2024 Led by a visionary entrepreneur with a profound passion for art, Nice Art Gallery epitomizes the fusion of creativity and accessibility, inviting enthusiasts and novices alike to embark on a journey of aesthetic discovery. Hilary Tetenbaum, USA TODAY, 8 Apr. 2024 The Gion district epitomizes Kyoto for many visitors, with its maze of narrow alleys and ryokans, traditional Japanese inns. John Wogan, New York Times, 1 Apr. 2024 Related article Players Championship: ‘Adamant’ Rory McIlroy says his conscience is clear after lengthy rules dispute with Jordan Spieth The series of chaotic events epitomized the 34-year-old’s tournament so far. Jack Bantock, CNN, 15 Mar. 2024 In the working-class neighborhood of East Palo Alto, before Silicon Valley’s rise, my grandparents epitomized an era when jobs offered long-term security. Ebony Flake, Essence, 8 Apr. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'epitomize.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1594, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of epitomize was in 1594

Dictionary Entries Near epitomize

Cite this Entry

“Epitomize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/epitomize. Accessed 8 May. 2024.

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

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