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

This 22-key hotel in the heart of Chianti epitomizes the Tuscan countryside. —Nicole Kliest, Vogue, 25 Nov. 2025

That match epitomized Diego Armando Maradona. —Esteban Campanela, CNN Money, 25 Nov. 2025

Balthazar in SoHo epitomizes this special McNally alchemy. —Jeremy Repanich, Robb Report, 19 Nov. 2025

Damian Lillard waves goodbye to OKC The final two possessions of a first-round series between the Thunder and Trail Blazers epitomized the rivalry between Damian Lillard and Russell Westbrook, the latter of whom had been talking trash at the former for years. —The Athletic Nba Staff, New York Times, 11 Nov. 2025

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