epitome

[ih-pit-uh-mee]

noun

1. a person or thing that is typical of or possesses to a high degree the features of a whole class.

   He is the epitome of goodness.

   Synonyms: quintessence, typification, model, exemplification, embodiment

2. a condensed account, especially of a literary work; abstract.

epitome

/ ɪˈpɪtəmɪ, ˌɛpɪˈtɒmɪkəl /

noun

1. a typical example of a characteristic or class; embodiment; personification

   he is the epitome of sloth

2. a summary of a written work; abstract

Other Word Forms

• epitomical adjective
• epitomic adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of epitome¹

First recorded in 1520–30; from Latin epitomē “abridgment,” from Greek epitomḗ “abridgment, surface incision,” equivalent to epi- + -tome

Word History and Origins

Origin of epitome¹

C16: via Latin from Greek epitomē, from epitemnein to abridge, from _epi- + temnein to cut

Example Sentences

Born in the 19th century, Brancusi made his career in 20th century Paris, his work the epitome of Modernist abstraction.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

The most formidable figure in American sports history is standing where he grew up, where his team lives and where he forever will embody the epitome of the gutty Bruin.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

In many ways, this match was the epitome of the gap between world's best Sinner, Alcaraz and the rest.

Read more on BBC

“The long turn was the epitome of how hard the work could be for some workers,” says McCartin.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

“Eric was the epitome of an engaged constituent and critic of local government, persistently questioning and challenging government officials,” Harrison said.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• apotheosis 
• embodiment 
• essence 
• exemplar 
• personification