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

• demonstrate
• illustrate
• instance

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

The deportation chain in Louisiana exemplifies a nationwide operation that is redefining American immigration policy, legally and morally. —Eric Cortellessa, Time, 10 June 2025

This appointment exemplifies Playfly’s increased commitment to providing capital investment to help partner initiatives that unlock new revenue streams and long-term value. —Sportico Staff, Sportico.com, 6 June 2025

Hungary’s democratic facade Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán exemplifies this approach. —Daniel Treisman, The Conversation, 3 June 2025

The spa exemplifies Eriro’s ethos of reconnecting to nature and disconnecting from the digital realm. —Chiara Barzini, Vogue, 3 June 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