Epitome Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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epitome
[ษชหpษชtษmi ]
Definition
the perfect example of something
Epitome is a noun that refers to a perfect example of something. It is often used to describe a person or thing that represents the best or highest quality of a particular type. When someone or something is considered the epitome of a certain characteristic, they are seen as the ideal representation of that trait.
Synonyms
embodiment, ideal, paragon, quintessence, representation.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| epitome |
Used to highlight something or someone that is a perfect example of a particular quality or type.
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| embodiment |
Refers to a tangible or visible form of an idea, quality, or feeling. Often used in philosophical or literary contexts.
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| quintessence |
Refers to the most perfect or typical example of a quality or class. Often used in literary and academic contexts.
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| paragon |
A person or thing viewed as a model of excellence. Used in both casual and formal contexts.
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| ideal |
Used to describe something regarded as perfect or most suitable. Commonly used in discussions about standards or aspirations.
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| representation |
Used to describe something that stands for or symbolizes another thing. Often used in artistic, legal, or political contexts.
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Examples of usage
- The Taj Mahal is considered the epitome of architectural beauty.
- She is the epitome of grace and elegance.
- His latest novel is the epitome of great storytelling.
- The company strives to be the epitome of customer service excellence.
- Her dress was the epitome of style and sophistication.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- In literary criticism, a character or theme can be called the 'epitome' of a specific style, showcasing the main traits of that genre.
- Many classic novels feature an 'epitome' character, like the heroic figure embodying bravery or the archetypal villain representing evil.
- Famous works often include an 'epitome' chapter that summarizes key events or themes, helping readers grasp main ideas quickly.
Pop Culture
- In modern discussions, celebrities like Michael Jordan are referred to as the 'epitome' of athletic excellence in basketball.
- Fashion icons like Coco Chanel are often seen as the 'epitome' of style and elegance, influencing trends globally.
- The concept of the 'epitome' can be found in marketing, where a brand embodies the best aspects of its industryโlike Apple in technology.
Psychology
- In psychology, someone might become the 'epitome' of a certain personality type, serving as a reference point for understanding specific traits.
- Stereotypes often arise when individuals are viewed as the 'epitome' of a group, which can lead to oversimplifications of their characteristics.
- The 'epitome effect' occurs when someone is perceived as more competent or valuable just because they represent a particular standard.
Education
- In academic settings, an 'epitome' can refer to a comprehensive summary that captures the essence of a subject matter for easier understanding.
- Writing a study guide often involves creating an 'epitome' that highlights main concepts and important details for students.
- Many exams assess students on their ability to identify the 'epitome' of topics, testing their understanding of key ideas.
Origin of 'epitome'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Greek 'epitome,' meaning 'a summary or abstract,' which reflects its use in describing something that represents a larger whole.
- Through Old French, it made its way into Middle English around the 15th century, adapting its meaning over time.
- In ancient texts, it often referred to condensed versions of larger works, emphasizing the idea of capturing essential qualities.
The word 'epitome' originated from the Greek word 'epitemnein', which means 'to cut short'. In ancient Greece, an epitome referred to a summary or condensed version of a literary work. Over time, the meaning of the word evolved to represent a perfect example or embodiment of a particular quality. The use of 'epitome' in English literature dates back to the 16th century, where it was used to describe ideal representations or quintessential examples.
See also: epitomize.