exemplar

[ ig-zem-pler, -plahr ]

noun

1. a model or pattern to be copied or imitated:

   Washington is the exemplar of patriotic virtue.

2. a typical example or instance.
3. an original or archetype:

   Plato thought nature but a copy of ideal exemplars.

4. a copy of a book or text.

exemplar

/ -plɑː; ɪɡˈzɛmplə /

noun

1. a person or thing to be copied or imitated; model
2. a typical specimen or instance; example
3. a copy of a book or text on which further printings have been based

Word History and Origins

Origin of exemplar¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English, from Latin, variant of exemplāre, noun use of neuter of exemplāris “relating or pertaining to a model or pattern,” replacing Middle English exaumplere, from Middle French examplaire, from Latin exemplāris; exemplary

Word History and Origins

Origin of exemplar¹

C14: from Latin exemplarium model, from exemplum example

Example Sentences

And the more incompetent or ignorant the straight white man is, the more he is held out as the exemplar of "merit" in MAGA-speak.

From Salon

Kate – not her real name - was reacting to evidence suggesting Stephen Cottrell, now Archbishop of York, "frequently" held up David Tudor as "an exemplar of parish ministry".

From BBC

He hosts the weekly podcast and radio show “The State of Belief”, distributed by Religion News Service, holding weekly conversations with inspiring spiritual leaders, civic exemplars, artists and activists.

From Salon

Gerda’s career is an exemplar of what happens when news organizations invest in local journalism, let reporters dig instead of writing clickbait and stand by them in the face of critics real and imagined.

From Los Angeles Times

Harris is, however, an exemplar of her home state in one significant way.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• epitome
• paragon