Typified Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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typified

[ˈtɪpɪfaɪd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

general usage

The word 'typified' is the past tense of the verb 'typify'. It means to represent a particular type or characteristic of something. When something is typified, it embodies the essential qualities or traits common to a kind. This term is often used to indicate that a person, thing, or situation serves as a typical example of a larger group or category.

Synonyms

demonstrated, exemplified, represented, symbolized.

Examples of usage

  • She typified the spirit of the community.
  • His behavior typifies the challenges faced by many.
  • The artwork typified the style of the era.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Literature

  • In literature, characters or events can be typified to represent broader themes, such as love or betrayal.
  • Famous literary works often typify particular societal issues or ideologies, serving as a critique of the time.

Psychology

  • People often typify others based on first impressions, which can influence their interactions and beliefs unconsciously.
  • Stereotyping occurs when one typifies a very narrow view of a group, potentially leading to biases and misconceptions.

Cultural Significance

  • Cultural stereotypes often typify entire groups of people based on oversimplified traits or behaviors.
  • Artworks can be typified by their style, such as Impressionism representing fleeting moments rather than realistic detail.

Science

  • In biology, a species can be typified based on characteristic features that can help in classification.
  • In psychology, typified behaviors can inform researchers about group dynamics and interpersonal relationships.

Origin of 'typified'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Greek word 'typos', meaning 'a blow' or 'impression', which relates to creating a model or example.
  • In the Middle Ages, the term evolved in Latin to 'typificare', meaning to classify or to represent something as a type.

The term 'typified' comes from the root word 'type', which traces its origin to the Greek word 'typos' meaning 'a blow, impression, or model'. This concept of type evolved through Latin into Middle English, where 'typify' emerged in the 15th century, signifying 'to represent or mark'. The use of 'typified' in English conveys the idea of exemplification, where a specific instance is indicative of a broader category. Over time, it has been utilized in various contexts, from literature to social sciences, to show how individual entities can embody overarching characteristics of their groups.


Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,241, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.