Epitomize Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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epitomize

[ɪˈpɪtəmaɪz ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

written form

To epitomize means to be a perfect example or representation of something. It is to summarize or represent something in a concise form.

Synonyms

embody, exemplify, represent, symbolize.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
epitomize	Used to describe something or someone that is the perfect example of a particular quality or type. She epitomizes the perfect student, always diligent and focused. The small town epitomizes American rural life.
embody	Used to express the idea that a person or thing represents or brings to life a particular quality, idea, or concept. He embodies the spirit of generosity. The statue embodies the values of freedom and democracy.
exemplify	Used to show or illustrate by example, especially to make something clear or understandable. Her achievements exemplify what is possible with hard work. This case exemplifies the challenges faced by modern educators.
represent	Used to describe the action of acting or speaking on behalf of someone or something, or symbolizing a particular idea or group. The spokesperson will represent the community at the meeting. These graphs represent the data collected over the past year.
symbolize	Used to represent ideas, qualities, or concepts through symbols or metaphors. The dove symbolizes peace and hope. This monument symbolizes the sacrifices made during the war.

Examples of usage

His actions epitomize the values of our organization.
The movie epitomizes the struggles of the working class.
She epitomized elegance and grace.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

formal writing

An epitomize is a summary or miniature representation of a larger work or concept. It is a condensed version that captures the essence of the original.

Synonyms

abstract, digest, summary, synopsis.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
epitomize	Refer to the first description for epitomize.
summary	Use generally to refer to a brief statement that presents the main points of something, suitable for both casual and formal settings. The meeting concluded with a summary of the key points discussed. I need a summary of this book for my class.
abstract	Use in academic or formal writing to refer to a brief summary of a research paper, article, or document. I read the abstract before deciding to dive into the full article. This report should start with an abstract that outlines the key findings.
digest	Use when referring to a condensed version of a large amount of information, often presented in an easier-to-read format. The weekly news digest highlights all the major events. She prefers reading digests because they save her time.
synopsis	Use when describing a brief overview of a story, play, movie, or other creative work, often to give an idea of its content. The synopsis on the back cover made me interested in reading the book. Before the play began, we were given a short synopsis of the plot.

Examples of usage

The book includes an epitomize of the author's main arguments.
The painting serves as an epitomize of the artist's style and themes.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

In literary analysis, characters or themes that epitomize certain traits often serve as symbols or representations of larger societal issues.
Classic novels often feature protagonists who epitomize personal virtues like bravery or justice.
Authors use epitomization to distill complex concepts into relatable figures or phrases, enhancing reader engagement.

Pop Culture

Certain iconic movies or songs epitomize the era they were released in, making them cultural touchstones.
Fashion trends can epitomize entire decades, like flapper styles in the 1920s or grunge in the 1990s.
Public figures often epitomize specific ideals or movements, influencing how they are perceived and understood by society.

Psychology

The human tendency to epitomize traits in others can lead to stereotyping and oversimplification of complex identities.
Cognitive biases can cause people to focus on instances that epitomize their beliefs, reinforcing those beliefs.
Seeing someone epitomize success can motivate individuals to strive for similar achievements.

History

Historical figures are often cited as epitomes of certain values, like Mahatma Gandhi for nonviolence and Nelson Mandela for equality.
Art movements may epitomize cultural shifts, such as Impressionism capturing changing perceptions of light and color in the 19th century.
Revolutionary ideas can be epitomized by specific events or speeches that encapsulate their core message.

Origin of 'epitomize'

Main points about word origin

The word comes from the Greek word 'epitome,' meaning 'a summary' or 'abridgment.'
It evolved through Latin before entering the English language in the 16th century.
In its original Greek context, it was used to describe something that captures the essence of a larger idea.

The word 'epitomize' originated from the Greek word 'epitomos', meaning 'abridged' or 'summarized'. It entered the English language in the late 16th century. Over time, it has come to represent the act of summarizing or embodying the essence of something in a concise form.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,379 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

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31376 hefted
31377 telescoped
31378 simulacrum
31379 epitomize
31380 prolapsed
31381 moo
31382 fathering
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