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
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

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
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In Barnard, all-inclusive Twin Farms epitomizes rustic elegance on 300 acres of countryside with a history dating back to 1793. Lydia Price, Travel + Leisure, 6 Feb. 2026 Crespi junior forward Cayman Martin epitomizes that illustration after playing junior varsity basketball his sophomore season and blossoming into one of the team’s most reliable players. Tarek Fattal, Daily News, 6 Feb. 2026 Though Proust never came to Ireland, his own work also contains echoes of Irish history and culture that epitomize its polymathic, cosmopolitan spirit. Literary Hub, 2 Feb. 2026 Present on each album since 2005’s Feels, he has often been credited with samplers and electronics and has always avoided the spotlight; his habit of wearing a headlamp during concerts perfectly epitomizes his studious, workmanlike role in the band. Zach Schonfeld, Pitchfork, 30 Jan. 2026 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

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Cite this Entry

“Epitomize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/epitomize. Accessed 8 Feb. 2026.

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

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