exemplify

[ig-zem-pluh-fahy]

verb (used with object)

exemplified, exemplifying 

1. to show or illustrate by example.

2. to furnish or serve as an example of.

   The plays of Wilde exemplify the comedy of manners.

   Synonyms: embody, depict, epitomize, typify

3. Law.,  to transcribe or copy; make an attested copy of (a document) under seal.

exemplify

/ ɪɡˈzɛmplɪˌfaɪ /

verb

1. to show by example

2. to serve as an example of

3. law

   1. to make an official copy of (a document from public records) under seal

   2. to transcribe (a legal document)

Other Word Forms

• exemplifiable adjective
• exemplifier noun
• exemplificative adjective
• exemplification noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of exemplify¹

First recorded in 1375–1425; late Middle English exemplifien, from Middle French exemplifier, from Medieval Latin exemplificāre “to copy”; See exemplum, -ify

Word History and Origins

Origin of exemplify¹

C15: via Old French from Medieval Latin exemplificāre, from Latin exemplum _example + facere to make

Example Sentences

It is exemplified by the results of this season, where 11 different men have won the first 11 events.

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The quartet in question exemplified a force for good that’s too often overlooked: the power of family.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

The simplicity with which the goal was created exemplified Forest's excellence and Liverpool's lack of heart and intensity.

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“He exemplifies profound paternal investment, fostering their potential amid global challenges, surpassing most historical figures in active involvement despite scale,” the AI chatbot wrote.

Read more on Salon

“Our products are beneficial for people and businesses and exemplify American innovation and economic growth.”

Read more on Barron's

Related Words

• demonstrate 
• depict 
• elucidate 
• embody 
• epitomize 
• illuminate 
• illustrate 
• manifest 
• mirror 
• personify 
• represent 
• spell out 
• symbolize 
• typify