Epitome Meaning and Definition
Epitome
Pronunciation
/ˈɛpɪtəmi/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A person or thing that embodies the perfection or essence of a quality or idea; a model or archetype.
Examples
- The new smartphone was the epitome of modern design and technology.
- The idealized image of the perfect body was the epitome of beauty standards.
Synonyms
- Paragon
- Model
Antonyms
- Criticism
- Fallibility
Additional Information
Epitome is often used to describe something that is considered the ultimate or perfect example of a particular concept or idea. This word can be used in various contexts, including literature, art, philosophy, and everyday language. In modern usage, epitome is often used to describe something that is aspirational or perfect, but not necessarily achievable.
Origins of the word epitome date back to ancient Greece, where it referred to a summary or condensation of a text. Over time, the meaning of the word evolved to encompass the idea of a perfect or ideal example.
In literature, epitome is often used to describe a character or event that embodies the essence of a particular theme or idea. For example, in Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, Romeo is often referred to as the epitome of romantic love.
Etymology
The word epitome comes from the ancient Greek word epitome (ἐπιτομή), meaning “summary” or “condensation”.
Usage Notes
Epitome is often used in formal or literary contexts, and its usage can be considered formal or informal depending on the context.
Cultural References
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
There are no specific idiomatic expressions or phrases that include the word epitome.
Related Words or Phrases
- Paragon
- Model
- Archetype
Collocations
- epitome of perfection
- epitome of elegance
- epitome of simplicity
Frequency of Use
Epitome is not a commonly used word in everyday language, but it is often used in formal or literary contexts.
Common Misspellings
Some common misspellings of epitome include epiteme, epitimme, and epitomee.