epitomize

especially British, e·pit·o·mise

[ih-pit-uh-mahyz]

verb (used with object)

epitomized, epitomizing 

1. to contain or represent in small compass; serve as a typical example of; typify.

   This meadow epitomizes the beauty of the whole area.

2. to make an epitome of.

   to epitomize an argument.

epitomize

/ ɪˈpɪtəˌmaɪz /

verb

1. to be a personification of; typify

2. to make an epitome of

Other Word Forms

• epitomization noun
• epitomizer noun
• unepitomized adjective
• epitomist noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of epitomize¹

First recorded in 1590–1600; epitom(e) + -ize

Example Sentences

“Their play style is relentless. I think of so many plays in games where guys are fighting that extra inch and those guys epitomize that.”

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It continues to shield the group from enforcement action by the Lebanese government, epitomized by Beirut’s failure to prevent Hezbollah from projecting Nasrallah’s image onto Raouche Rock or to respond with meaningful punitive actions.

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“To me, he kind of epitomizes a lot of the success that we’ve had looking back,” Friedman said.

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The moment epitomizes the approach of this adaptation, which begins its world-premiere run Tuesday at La Jolla Playhouse: take the most memorable parts of the movie and turn up the volume for the stage.

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Nestled at the end of a cul-de-sac, this brand-new, modern home epitomizes luxury.

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Related Words

• characterize 
• embody 
• exemplify 
• illustrate 
• personify 
• represent 
• stand for 
• symbolize