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

And no play better epitomized this possibly new, perhaps even humbled Kuminga than his offensive rebound with one minute to play in the game. —Dieter Kurtenbach, Mercury News, 22 Oct. 2025

Dulgarian, the son of a dirt-track racer, epitomizes the restlessly innovative spirit that keeps shoegaze so vital. —Rob Sheffield, Rolling Stone, 17 Oct. 2025

Drew Struzan, the legendary movie poster artist whose illustrations epitomized Hollywood blockbuster marketing art for generations, has died. —Wesley Stenzel, Entertainment Weekly, 14 Oct. 2025

D'Angelo, the Grammy-winning singer-songwriter and producer whose retro R&B sound epitomized the neo-soul movement of the mid-'90s, has died following a battle with cancer. —Edward Segarra, USA Today, 14 Oct. 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