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

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

Currently, each of these women is at the height of their physical performance, further cementing themselves as exemplars of their respective sports through their Olympic efforts.

From Salon

Dr Jenny Harries, then the deputy chief medical officer for England, hailed the UK as an “international exemplar” in its preparedness at one of the early TV press conferences.

From BBC

All three Latinos who spoke propped themselves up, Vance-like, as exemplars of their community and thus worth paying attention to.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• epitome
• paragon