exemplify

verb

ex·​em·​pli·​fy ig-ˈzem-plə-ˌfī 

exemplified; exemplifying

transitive verb

1

: to show or illustrate by example

anecdotes exemplifying those virtues

2

: to make an attested copy or transcript of (a document) under seal

3

a

: to be an instance of or serve as an example : embody

she exemplifies the qualities of a good leader

b

: to be typical of

a dish that exemplifies French cuisine

Synonyms

• illustrate
• demonstrate

Examples of exemplify in a Sentence

His works exemplify the taste of the period.

The city's economic growth is exemplified by the many new buildings that are currently under construction.

Recent Examples on the Web

Renew Health and Wellness exemplifies this trajectory. —Jason Phillips, USA Today, 23 Aug. 2025

The Hall of Fame honors advisors who exemplify long-term success and commitment to their clients. —Patti Brennan, Forbes.com, 22 Aug. 2025

The issue of chronic absenteeism, which has plagued schools in California and across the country since the COVID pandemic, exemplifies how teachers, parents and administrators can collaborate to facilitate education. —Nona Han, San Diego Union-Tribune, 20 Aug. 2025

Her dedication to storytelling, technical brilliance and lifelong commitment to collaboration exemplify the very best of our industry. —Jazz Tangcay, Variety, 19 Aug. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English exemplifien, from Anglo-French exemplifier, from Medieval Latin exemplificare, from Latin exemplum

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for exemplify

• acidify
• alveoli
• areolae
• demystify
• detoxify
• disqualify
• diversify
• electrify
• fasciculi
• identify
• indemnify
• intensify

Kids Definition

exemplify

verb

ex·​em·​pli·​fy ig-ˈzem-plə-ˌfī 

exemplified; exemplifying

1

: to show by example

the story exemplifies the virtue of generosity

2

: to serve as an example of

she exemplifies a good leader

exemplification

-ˌzem-plə-fə-ˈkā-shən

noun