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

At the January couture shows in Paris, the look was epitomized by Lauren Sánchez Bezos and her devotion to an hourglass silhouette and toe-crunching heels. — Robin Givhan, Vanity Fair, 19 Aug. 2026

The Bugatti Type 57 epitomizes that aesthetic power, exemplified by a low-slung body defined by voluptuous curves. — Viju Mathew, Robb Report, 17 Aug. 2026

Built in 1836—predating Newport’s famous Gilded Age mansions—this 4,000-square-foot residence epitomizes old-school Americana. — Kelsey Mulvey, Vogue, 4 Aug. 2026

The Kennedy Center once drew some of the world’s most prominent acts, epitomizing Washington’s cosmopolitan ambitions. — Janay Kingsberry, The Atlantic, 30 July 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