What does epitomise mean?
Epitomise is a verb that means to be a typical example of something, to represent or embody the essence of something. It is often used to describe someone or something that embodies the values or characteristics of a particular group or organisation. The word can be used in both formal and informal contexts, and is commonly used in writing and speech to describe a person, place, or thing that represents the best qualities of a particular group or organisation. Epitomise is a useful word for describing someone or something that is a model or paragon of a particular quality or characteristic. It is often used in academic or professional writing to describe a person or thing that embodies the values or principles of a particular field or discipline. The word has been in use since the 17th century, and has its roots in the Greek word 'epitome', meaning 'a summary or epitome'. Epitomise is a versatile word that can be used in a variety of contexts, and is a useful addition to any writer's or speaker's vocabulary.
verbTo be a typical example of something, to represent or embody the essence of something.
- To be a typical example of something, to represent or embody the essence of something.
"The new employee epitomised the company's values with her dedication and work ethic."
"The new employee epitomised the company's values with her dedication and work ethic."
"The city's architecture epitomised the Art Deco style of the 1920s."
The plural form of epitomise is used to describe multiple examples of something that embody the values or characteristics of a particular group or organisation.
"The company's new employees epitomised the company's values with their dedication and work ethic."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of epitomise
The word 'epitomise' has its roots in the Greek word 'epitome', meaning 'a summary or epitome'. The word was first used in the 17th century, and has been in use ever since. It is derived from the Greek words 'epi', meaning 'on' or 'upon', and 'tome', meaning 'a summary or epitome'. The word has been influenced by other languages, including Latin and French, and has evolved over time to take on its current meaning.
How epitomise is actually used
Formal or informal, epitomise is used in both contexts. It is often used to describe someone or something that embodies the values or characteristics of a particular group or organisation.