exemplify

[ ig-zem-pluh-fahy ]

verb (used with object)

, ex·em·pli·fied, ex·em·pli·fy·ing.

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)

Derived Forms

• exˈemplifiˌcative, adjective
• exˈempliˌfier, noun
• exˈempliˌfiable, adjective
• exˌemplifiˈcation, noun

Other Words From

• ex·em·pli·fi·a·ble [ig-zem-pl, uh, -, fahy, -, uh, -b, uh, l], adjective
• ex·em·pli·fi·er 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

Early last month, during an appearance on ABC’S “The View,” Harris damaged her effort to exemplify her independence.

From Los Angeles Times

In America, the middle class, not the aristocracy, exemplified the national spirit, though the phrase "middle class" was not widely used until the later 19th century.

From Salon

The family talent stretches to daughter Romany Gilmour, whose youthful, pure voice and persona has a lovely gravitas, as exemplified on the new song “Between Two Points.”

From Los Angeles Times

While the Yankees' fielding and baserunning was occasionally sloppy, the Dodgers gave no quarter, and this final game exemplified how their injury-hit pitching staff collectively pulled together to help deliver the title.

From BBC

Herbert made do against the Cardinals, leaning on a collection of lesser-known players best exemplified by below-the-radar tight end Will Dissly, who caught eight passes for 81 yards, both game highs.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

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