epitomize

verb

epit·​o·​mize i-ˈpi-tə-ˌmīz 

epitomized; epitomizing

transitive verb

1

: to serve as the typical or ideal example of

Memorial Day might be the unofficial start to summer, but the Fourth of July is the holiday that most epitomizes it.

—Chris Morris

2

: to make or give an epitome of

Synonyms of epitomize

• summarize
• outline

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 gearbox is absolutely sensational to use, the full-size paddle-shifters working with a satisfyingly mechanical click, which epitomizes the W1’s commitment to feel and feedback. — Jason Barlow, Robb Report, 7 July 2026

Her entrance at the CFG Bank Arena show epitomized her persona and personality. — Melissa Ruggieri, USA Today, 7 July 2026

The Owlet is one of those products that nearly every parent in a social media group will have an opinion on, and the enthusiasts epitomize the word. — Beth Ann Mayer, Parents, 1 July 2026

It was epitomized in that Oranje march but now evident all over the area. — Kansas City Star, 30 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1594, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Rhymes for epitomize

• actualize
• antagonize
• apologise
• apologize
• capitalize
• categorize
• characterize
• commercialize
• conceptualize
• contrariwise
• criminalize
• decentralize

Kids Definition

epitomize

verb

epit·​o·​mize i-ˈpit-ə-ˌmīz 

epitomized; epitomizing

: to make or serve as an epitome of