exemplar

noun

ex·​em·​plar ig-ˈzem-ˌplär 

-plər, 

eg-

: one that serves as a model or example: such as

a

: an ideal model

b

: a typical or standard specimen

an exemplar of medieval architecture

c

: a copy of a book or writing

d

: idea sense 5a

Synonyms of exemplar

• example

Choose the Right Synonym for exemplar

model, example, pattern, exemplar, ideal mean someone or something set before one for guidance or imitation.

model applies to something taken or proposed as worthy of imitation.

a decor that is a model of good taste

example applies to a person to be imitated or in some contexts on no account to be imitated but to be regarded as a warning.

children tend to follow the example of their parents

pattern suggests a clear and detailed archetype or prototype.

American industry set a pattern for others to follow

exemplar suggests either a faultless example to be emulated or a perfect typification.

cited Joan of Arc as the exemplar of courage

ideal implies the best possible exemplification either in reality or in conception.

never found a job that matched his ideal

Examples of exemplar in a Sentence

cited Joan of Arc as the exemplar of courage

He is an exemplar of this new breed of politician.

Recent Examples on the Web

Melissa are prime exemplars of how to do it right — and you’re bound to discover both the ultra-luxury and the laid-back amidst Nordstrom’s bursting-at-the-seams sale section this May. —Stacia Datskovska, Footwear News, 26 May 2026

And the entire project is the lead exemplar of Homewards, Prince William's flagship initiative to demonstrate that homelessness can be made rare, brief, and unrepeated. —Afdhel Aziz, Forbes.com, 25 May 2026

Between the historically high bar of OL Lyonnes and the recent surge of Barcelona, the two teams are shining exemplars of what’s possible with proper investment in women’s clubs. —Tamerra Griffin, New York Times, 21 May 2026

The trio of titles making the rounds at Cannes are exemplars of the type of material Anonymous Content intends to pursue that this moment of great upheaval across film and TV. —Cynthia Littleton, Variety, 8 May 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Latin, from exemplum example

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

exemplar

noun

ex·​em·​plar ig-ˈzem-ˌplär 

-plər

1

: one that serves as a model or pattern

especially : an ideal model

2

: a typical example