epitomize

verb

epit·​o·​mize i-ˈpi-tə-ˌmīz How to pronounce epitomize (audio)
epitomized; epitomizing
Synonyms of epitomize

transitive verb

1
: to serve as the typical or ideal example of
Memorial Day might be the unofficial start to summer, but the Fourth of July is the holiday that most epitomizes it.—Chris Morris
2
: to make or give an epitome of

Synonyms of epitomize

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Examples of epitomize in a Sentence

This student's struggles epitomize the trouble with our schools. his personal code of behavior on the playing field is epitomized by his favorite saying, “Nice guys finish last”
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Meta Platforms' Muse epitomizes the excitement with the app off to a fast start. — Tobias Burns, CNBC, 22 Oct. 2026 Barbecued chicken epitomizes the approach of Brock and chef de cuisine Ben Norton, who worked previously at McCrady’s and Husk Nashville. — Bill Addison, Los Angeles Times, 22 Oct. 2026 One brother epitomized the god of wine and the pleasures of the flesh. — Chuck Lorre, Vanity Fair, 7 Oct. 2026 As Rosewood's first foray into the UAE, this property, much like all 26 Rosewoods worldwide, epitomizes style and sophistication. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 6 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for epitomize

Word History

First Known Use

1594, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of epitomize was in 1594

Rhymes for epitomize

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Browse Nearby Words

epitomist
epitomize
epitomizer
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Cite this Entry

“Epitomize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/epitomize. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

epitomize

verb
epit·​o·​mize i-ˈpit-ə-ˌmīz How to pronounce epitomize (audio)
epitomized; epitomizing
: to make or serve as an epitome of
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