Epitome: meaning, definitions and examples

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epitome

 

[ ɪˈpɪtəmi ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

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?

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Word Description / Examples
epitome

Used to highlight something or someone that is a perfect example of a particular quality or type.

  • She is the epitome of kindness.
  • The house is the epitome of modern architecture.
embodiment

Refers to a tangible or visible form of an idea, quality, or feeling. Often used in philosophical or literary contexts.

  • He is the embodiment of bravery.
  • This statue is the embodiment of freedom.
quintessence

Refers to the most perfect or typical example of a quality or class. Often used in literary and academic contexts.

  • He is the quintessence of politeness.
  • This wine is the quintessence of fine French viniculture.
paragon

A person or thing viewed as a model of excellence. Used in both casual and formal contexts.

  • He is a paragon of virtue.
  • The recipe is a paragon of culinary excellence.
ideal

Used to describe something regarded as perfect or most suitable. Commonly used in discussions about standards or aspirations.

  • She is the ideal candidate for the job.
  • This is the ideal place for a vacation.
representation

Used to describe something that stands for or symbolizes another thing. Often used in artistic, legal, or political contexts.

  • This painting is a representation of hope.
  • The senator is a representation of the people's will.

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

Translations of the word "epitome" in other languages:

🇵🇹 epítome

🇮🇳 निष्कर्ष

🇩🇪 Epitome

🇮🇩 epitome

🇺🇦 епітоме

🇵🇱 epitome

🇯🇵 要約 (ようやく)

🇫🇷 épitome

🇪🇸 epítome

🇹🇷 epitom

🇰🇷 정수 (jeongsu)

🇸🇦 مختصر (mukhtasar)

🇨🇿 epitome

🇸🇰 epitome

🇨🇳 缩影 (suōyǐng)

🇸🇮 epitome

🇮🇸 epitome

🇰🇿 эпитом

🇬🇪 ეპითომა (epit'oma)

🇦🇿 epitom

🇲🇽 epítome

Etymology

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.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,136, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.