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

Per Harle, it’s epitomized in the scene where Simba sees the reflection of his father’s face, as well as in the theme music of the 1990 Lucasfilm adventure game The Secret of Monkey Island. —Anna Gaca, Pitchfork, 1 Oct. 2025

The final game against Nakashima epitomized the completeness of his tennis. —Charlie Eccleshare, New York Times, 29 Sep. 2025

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

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