exemplified; exemplifying
Synonyms of exemplify

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.
Polls consistently show that many more Americans (about 47%, according to Gallup a year ago) want to see their leaders exemplify compromise than take a stick-to-beliefs approach (24%). — Mark Trumbull, Christian Science Monitor, 20 Oct. 2026 Alan is determined to make the dance special for both of them and exemplifies the grace that Jenna says her mom instilled in her. — Katie Campione, Deadline, 20 Oct. 2026 But no stat better exemplifies the chaos of week seven better than this one. — Ian Miller Outkick, FOXNews.com, 19 Oct. 2026 The group’s work is exemplified by its annual High Artistry collection, which draws inspiration from a different place or idea each year. — Justin Fenner, Robb Report, 17 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for exemplify

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

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 Oct. 2026.

Kids Definition

exemplify

verb
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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