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

• exemplificative adjective
• exemplifier noun
• exemplifiable 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

“His was a life lived with passion, a life that exemplified the beauty of pursuing one’s dreams and the importance of cherishing every moment,” the family said.

From Los Angeles Times

Cain’s transformation from playing a character who protected immigrants to actively participating in their deportation exemplifies the broader cultural shift toward dehumanizing undocumented people.

From Los Angeles Times

Collectively, they bowled far too short and wide to him, exemplified by 72 runs of his first 100 runs being scored behind square on the off side.

From BBC

Instead, Malaysia’s plight exemplifies what a baldly transactional and one-sided approach produces in practice.

From Salon

Wales' defence was much improved though, exemplified by Callender who came up with a crucial turnover to prevent a try for Morgan, while fellow back-rower Bethan Lewis also put in a solid shift.

From BBC

Related Words

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