exemplify

verb

ex·​em·​pli·​fy ig-ˈzem-plə-ˌfī How to pronounce exemplify (audio)
exemplified; exemplifying

transitive verb

1
: to show or illustrate by example
anecdotes exemplifying those virtues
2
: to make an attested copy or transcript of (a document) under seal
3
a
: to be an instance of or serve as an example : embody
she exemplifies the qualities of a good leader
b
: to be typical of
a dish that exemplifies French cuisine

Examples of exemplify in a Sentence

His works exemplify the taste of the period. The city's economic growth is exemplified by the many new buildings that are currently under construction.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Netflix exemplified this by pivoting from DVDs to streaming before the market forced the change. Julian Hayes Ii, Forbes, 23 Feb. 2025 Featuring a gradient leather finish in either green or purple, this design exemplifies the synesthesia phenomenon by reimagining a classic silhouette—blending two distinct styles and introducing them in striking and unconventional colorways. Essence, 21 Feb. 2025 Along with an outstanding team of doctors, trainers and medical staff, Zo embraced adversity and exemplified resilience. Darnell Mayberry, The Athletic, 20 Feb. 2025 The film is a definitive showing of him as an auteur, exemplified in the stunning 16mm images and the gravity of the characters’ stakes, all while maintaining humor, horror, and humanity at the core. Brent Lang, Variety, 20 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for exemplify

Word History

Etymology

Middle English exemplifien, from Anglo-French exemplifier, from Medieval Latin exemplificare, from Latin exemplum

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of exemplify was in the 15th century

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Cite this Entry

“Exemplify.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/exemplify. Accessed 3 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

exemplify

verb
ex·​em·​pli·​fy ig-ˈzem-plə-ˌfī How to pronounce exemplify (audio)
exemplified; exemplifying
1
: to show by example
the story exemplifies the virtue of generosity
2
: to serve as an example of
she exemplifies a good leader
exemplification
-ˌzem-plə-fə-ˈkā-shən
noun

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