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 4c

Synonyms

• 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

Over the years exemplars in this space like Jack LaLanne and Susan Powter managed to crush it with a mix of charm and aplomb. —Michael Ashley, Forbes.com, 30 June 2025

Smokey and the Bandit, Any Which Way But Loose, all those great cinematic exemplars from the ’70s. —Dave Nemetz, TVLine, 15 May 2025

Knox and his team’s work is an exemplar of how multidisciplinary research spanning meteorology, cartography, geography, and other social sciences disciplines can inform decisionmakers and save lives. —Marshall Shepherd, Forbes.com, 19 June 2025

India would cease to be an exemplar of liberal democracy at a time when the world desperately needs one. —Ashley J. Tellis, Foreign Affairs, 17 June 2025

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