noun / verb
sample
SAM-puhl/ˈsæmpl/
A small part representing a whole, or trying or testing such a part.
The small plaid sample matches the larger bolt of fabric.
Etymology
Latin exemplum meant a specimen or model, literally something “taken out.” A sample similarly lets a selected portion illustrate the character or quality of a larger whole.
In context
the sample size for previous impeachments is incredibly small because impeachment proceedings have only been initiated against three presidents
More examples
- The lab tests water samples from several local wells.
- We sample the soup before ordering a bowl.
- Researchers interview a random sample of voters.
- The inspector samples each batch to check its quality.
Forms
sample · samples · sampled · sampling
sampler noun — A collection of small portions to try.