What does exemplar mean?
An exemplar is a person, work, or thing that stands as a model of excellence — something so fine in its kind that others are encouraged to imitate it. Calling someone an exemplar of honesty or courage is high praise: it places them not merely among the good but at the standard against which others are measured. The word carries a distinctly formal, admiring tone and appears most often in academic, literary, and moral contexts, frequently in phrases such as 'an exemplar of civic virtue'. A second, more specialised sense refers to a specimen copy of a book or document, particularly one kept as an authoritative reference or one of a small number of early printings. Deriving from Latin exemplum ('sample' or 'pattern'), the same root that gives us example, exemplary, and exemplify, 'exemplar' is a precise and elevated way of identifying the very best of its class.
nounA person or thing regarded as a model of excellence, worthy of imitation. Also, an early printed edition of a book or a specimen copy kept for reference.
- A person or thing serving as a model of excellence, worthy of imitation.
- A specimen copy of a book or document, especially one printed early or kept as an authoritative reference.
"Her tireless advocacy for refugees made her an exemplar of civic courage."
"The young scientist was held up as an exemplar of rigorous, ethical research."
"Only three exemplars of the first edition are known to survive."
The regular plural 'exemplars' is standard in all contexts. A learned Latinate plural 'exempla' exists but is confined to scholarly discussion of classical texts and rhetorical tradition.
"Throughout history, great teachers have served as exemplars for their students."
The word 'exemplar' comes straight from Latin 'eximere' — literally 'to take out' — so an exemplar is someone taken out from the crowd as the very best.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of exemplar
Exemplar derives from the Latin noun exemplum, meaning 'sample', 'specimen', or 'pattern', which itself traces back to the verb eximere, 'to take out'. It entered English via Old French in the late Middle English period, initially carrying senses related to models and copies. Its cognates include the closely related words example, exemplary, and exemplify, all built on the same Latin root.
Related word forms
How exemplar is actually used
Formal register; common in academic, literary, and moral discourse. Often appears in the phrase 'an exemplar of...' followed by a quality (virtue, courage, excellence). The plural is 'exemplars'; the rare Latinate plural 'exempla' survives mainly in scholarly writing about classical literature.
Easily confused with exemplar
An example is any instance used to illustrate a point, while an exemplar is specifically a model of outstanding quality to be emulated.
'Exemplary' is the adjective meaning deserving imitation, whereas 'exemplar' is the noun naming the model itself.