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 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

Spain said Eaton is a key piece of the 1940s Modernist plan for the campus that guided its development and an exemplar of the International Style of design that then prevailed. —Andres Viglucci, Miami Herald, 15 Jan. 2026

Hustled by Piotr Zielinski in midfield, an exemplar of the aforementioned depth Inter have in that position, McTominay lost the ball and watched his opponents go up the other end and score an early opener via Federico Dimarco. —James Horncastle, New York Times, 13 Jan. 2026

Out of all of them, the grave of the wife of a military officer stood out as a spectacular exemplar for its wealth of goods. —Maria Mocerino, Interesting Engineering, 12 Jan. 2026

The Dutch — forebears of our city and exemplars of cycling culture — require fast e-bikes to be licensed and insured as mopeds. —Sameer Butt, New York Daily News, 4 Jan. 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