verb
exemplify
ig-ZEM-plih-fy/ɪɡˈzemplɪfaɪ/
To illustrate something by being or providing an example.
Helping someone collect spilled groceries exemplifies kindness.
Etymology
An exemplum was a specimen or model, something that could represent a larger class. Exemplify developed from illustrating by examples to serving as the example itself.
In context
So [clears throat] why does St. Joseph exemplify modesty? Well, St. Joseph models modesty as quiet strength and uh reverent service.
More examples
- The teacher exemplifies each grammar rule with a simple sentence.
- Their quick response exemplified the hospital's commitment to patient safety.
- These cases exemplify how small mistakes can cause serious problems.
Forms
exemplify · exemplifies · exemplified · exemplifying
exemplification noun — The act of illustrating something through examples.
Similar words
- illustrate
- Emphasizes making something clear, sometimes through pictures rather than examples.
- typify
- Emphasizes being a representative example of a particular group.
- embody
- Emphasizes expressing an idea or quality in concrete form.