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

These warblers now join Amazonian butterflies, cichlid fish in Africa, as well as our own hominid lineage, as exemplars of this process of evolutionary sharing. —David Toews, The Conversation, 11 Dec. 2025

The detective, once the exemplar of reason, drifts here into a fog of unknowing. —Literary Hub, 10 Dec. 2025

The story continued to be cited and pictured as an exemplar of Roman charity, but the fable couldn’t have taken root if the idea of Cimon’s long sentence hadn’t resonated with an ancient audience. —Adam Gopnik, New Yorker, 8 Dec. 2025

One of the exemplars of the Rams’ depth at the position has been reserve right tackle Warren McClendon Jr. —Adam Grosbard, Oc Register, 4 Dec. 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