Epitomize Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ɪtɪməˈzaɪz/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Verb

Definition

To represent or embody the essential qualities or character of something or someone.

Examples

• She epitomized the idea of a modern woman.
• The company’s CEO epitomized the values of integrity and honesty.

Synonyms

• Symbolize
• Represent

Antonyms

• Contrast
• Disprove

Etymology

The word “Epitomize” comes from the Greek word “eitypos” meaning “form” or “stamp”, and is derived from the prefix “eiti-” meaning “in” and the suffix “-mize” meaning “to make” or “to treat as”.

Additional Information

Epitomize is a verb that is often used to describe the act of expressing or embodying a particular quality, characteristic, or idea. It is commonly used in a variety of contexts, including literature, art, and everyday conversation. When used as a noun, epitomize refers to the act or process of being a representation or embodiment of something.

Epitomize can also be used to describe a person who embodies the qualities or characteristics of a particular group, organization, or movement. For example, a person may be said to epitomize the values of a particular company or organization.

In a broader sense, epitomize can be used to describe anything that represents or embodies the essence of something else. For example, a famous painting may be said to epitomize the style of a particular artist.

Usage Notes

Epitomize is often used in the present tense, and is typically used with a subject that has a specific quality, characteristic, or idea that is being expressed or embodied.

The word is commonly used in formal and informal contexts, and is suitable for use in a variety of writing styles, including academic, literary, and conversational.

Cultural References

The word “Epitomize” has been used in various cultural references, including movies, literature, and music. For example, the phrase “the face of the company” may be used to describe someone who epitomizes the values and mission of the company.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

The word “Epitomize” is often used in idiomatic expressions or phrases, such as “the epitome of elegance” or “the hallmark of excellence”.

Related Words or Phrases

Related words or phrases include “symbolize”, “represent”, “embodiment”, and “personify”.

Collocations

Common collocations include “epitomize the values”, “epitomize the qualities”, and “epitomize the essence of”.

Frequency of Use

The word “Epitomize” is commonly used in formal and informal contexts, and is suitable for use in a variety of writing styles. It is estimated that the word is used several times per million words of text in the English language.

Common Misspellings

Common misspellings include “Epitimze”, “Epitimise”, and “Epotimise”.