epitomize

verb

epit·​o·​mize i-ˈpi-tə-ˌmīz 

epitomized; epitomizing

transitive verb

1

: to serve as the typical or ideal example of

2

: to make or give an epitome of

Synonyms

• abstract
• boil down
• brief
• digest
• encapsulate
• outline
• recap
• recapitulate
• reprise
• sum up
• summarize
• synopsize
• wrap up

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”

Recent Examples on the Web

Hongsheng Zhu, an assistant professor at Lingnan University in Hong Kong who studies Chinese governance, said this trend of nocturnal cycling epitomizes a local event going national primarily due to the algorithm of short video platforms and coverage by central media. —Peter Guo, NBC News, 11 Nov. 2024

Lakhani was equating the academic support with the highest level of organization and execution that epitomizes the training of a Navy Seal, the special operation force that stands for sea, air and land teams. —Jessica Dickler, CNBC, 18 Oct. 2024

And just in time for fall foliage season, the town has a new boutique hotel that perfectly epitomizes its historic roots without compromising modern-day luxuries. —Dobrina Zhekova, Travel + Leisure, 9 Oct. 2024

At a distance, this simple yet significant white gold classic from Patek might appear as nothing more than a stainless steel field watch—this is quiet luxury epitomized. —Cait Bazemore, Robb Report, 3 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1594, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Kids Definition

epitomize

verb

epit·​o·​mize i-ˈpit-ə-ˌmīz 

epitomized; epitomizing

: to make or serve as an epitome of