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

Ann and Nancy Wilson exemplify the complex power of sisterhood.

From Los Angeles Times

Massry and his store exemplify, in some ways, the kind of callow opportunism that many Democrats have long associated with Trump himself and the elite Republicans who sign on to his “populist” schtick.

From Slate

“At G.O.A.T., we pride ourselves on providing consumers with high-quality, artisanal product offerings and Wolfgang Puck’s culinary creations exemplify that. His dedication to his craft goes above and beyond, and we have no doubt that these Estate Truffles will be a consumer favorite, whether for gifting ahead of the holidays or a luxurious personal treat.”

From Salon

San Francisco State can “exemplify how student activism can result in positive institutional change,” Jeff Jackanicz, the foundation’s president, said in a campus-wide letter.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

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