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

• abstract
• boil down
• brief
• digest
• encapsulate
• outline
• recap
• recapitulate
• reprise
• sum up
• summarize
• synopsize
• wrap up

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

Two moments that epitomized those Panthers came in Game 3 of the 1996 Eastern Conference final against Pittsburgh. —David J. Neal, Miami Herald, 19 June 2025

Stocks, the financial risk asset epitomized, fell across markets globally. —Yeo Boon Ping, CNBC, 16 June 2025

Wearing the Automatique with its angled lugs, the mature ergonomics struck me, and the platinum monochrome version epitomizes stealth wealth. —Thor Svaboe, Robb Report, 13 June 2025

The continued danger and destruction between species is epitomized by the eponymous hidden world, a sanctuary for dragons who wish to live in peace away from human trappers and hunters. —Skyler Trepel, EW.com, 13 June 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