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 of exemplify

• 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

The film recognizes a film that exemplifies the values of peace, equality, global justice and civil liberties. — Dade Hayes, Deadline, 13 Oct. 2026

Putting Lee in motion is still one of the keys to unlocking the MU offense, as exemplified by his 32-yard score in the first quarter. — Pj Green, Kansas City Star, 10 Oct. 2026

Some feel that they are expected to represent, exemplify, teach and do research with a focus on race and ethnic studies programs. — Rodney Coates, The Conversation, 9 Oct. 2026

Stars are only awarded to an excellent few restaurants who exemplify high-quality cooking. — Ella Gonzales, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 8 Oct. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English exemplifien "to demonstrate by example, serve as a model, validate a document," borrowed from Anglo-French & Medieval Latin; Anglo-French exemplifier "to make an official copy of (a document)," borrowed from Medieval Latin exemplificāre "to adduce as an example, copy," from Latin exemplum example entry 1 + -ificāre -ify

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for exemplify

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

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