exemplify

verb

ex·​em·​pli·​fy ig-ˈzem-plə-ˌfī How to pronounce exemplify (audio)
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

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Even amid geopolitical strains, Chinese pop culture continues to captivate Americans in unexpected ways — exemplified by Labubu, a mischievous vinyl art toy from China that has become a cult sensation among Western collectors. Vivian Toh, Forbes.com, 23 June 2025 The peasants followed out of a need to earn a living, but they were frequently corrupted by the ideals of luxury and idleness exemplified by the rich, further driving them into poverty. Ben Woollard, JSTOR Daily, 18 June 2025 Two Career Achievement awards will be presented to film editors of outstanding merit, and the Golden Eddie Filmmaker of the Year honor will be given to a filmmaker who exemplifies distinguished achievement in the art and business of film. Erik Pedersen, Deadline, 17 June 2025 Protesters worry the scenic and often visited city is being exploited by wealthy tourists as exemplified by Bezos’ nuptials. Brian Niemietz, New York Daily News, 17 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for exemplify

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of exemplify was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Exemplify.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/exemplify. Accessed 27 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

exemplify

verb
ex·​em·​pli·​fy ig-ˈzem-plə-ˌfī How to pronounce exemplify (audio)
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

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