epitomize

verb

epit·​o·​mize i-ˈpi-tə-ˌmīz 

epitomized; epitomizing

transitive verb

1

: to serve as the typical or ideal example of

2

: to make or give an epitome of

Synonyms

• 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

Lopez appeared to have hit his stride—the gown epitomized the unconventional opulence of his design language. —Ana Karina Zatarain, New Yorker, 19 Sep. 2025

But as the Chiefs continue to look somewhere between mortal and vulnerable since reaching five of the last six Super Bowls, Kelce’s day in some ways epitomizes that. —Kansas City Star, 15 Sep. 2025

See the stick-thin, heroin chic look of the 1990s, and the more recent Coca-Cola bottle bodies epitomized by Black women and Black women wannabes like the Kardashians. —Leah Asmelash, CNN Money, 7 Sep. 2025

Pfleger’s actions always epitomize the kindness of inclusion. —Chicago Tribune, 5 Sep. 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