epitomize

verb

epit·​o·​mize i-ˈpi-tə-ˌmīz How to pronounce epitomize (audio)
epitomized; epitomizing

transitive verb

1
: to serve as the typical or ideal example of
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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
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 The real transfer trend can be seen by Isak’s replacement at Newcastle, Nick Woltemade, whose move from Stuttgart epitomizes the transfer fee inflation that has defined the summer 2025 transfer window. Steve Price, Forbes.com, 2 Sep. 2025 Hilton, whose personal style came to epitomize the early 2000s, has since evolved into a savvy entrepreneur. Ryma Chikhoune, Footwear News, 27 Aug. 2025 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 13 Sep. 2025.

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

More from Merriam-Webster on epitomize

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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