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Meaning of the Word

Epitome refers to a person or thing that is a perfect example of a particular quality or type. It signifies the embodiment or most representative instance of a concept or characteristic.

Definitions and Meaning in English

1. A person or thing that represents or is a perfect example of a particular quality or class.
2. A summary or brief representation of a larger work or concept.
3. The ideal or quintessential model of something.

History and Origin

The word “epitome” comes from the Greek word epitomē, meaning “a cut or abridgment,” derived from epitemnein, meaning “to cut short.” It entered the English language in the 16th century, initially referring to a concise summary of a written work. Over time, its usage expanded to describe the perfect example of a quality, as in “the epitome of kindness.”

Detailed Explanation

Epitome is often used to describe something or someone who perfectly exemplifies certain characteristics or traits, often to a heightened or idealized degree. It can be applied to people, objects, or ideas that embody the best or most typical qualities of a particular category. For example, “The Eiffel Tower is the epitome of French architecture” suggests that the tower represents the finest qualities of French architectural style. The term is also used to describe a concise or condensed version of a work, though its modern usage is more commonly associated with idealization and exemplification.

Example Sentences

1. She is the epitome of grace and elegance in everything she does.
2. The sports car is the epitome of luxury and performance.
3. His actions were the epitome of bravery, inspiring everyone around him.
4. The novel is the epitome of modernist literature, showcasing its defining features.
5. As a leader, he was the epitome of wisdom and vision.
6. The company’s new product is the epitome of innovation in the tech industry.
7. Her kindness was the epitome of what it means to be compassionate.
8. The mansion was the epitome of wealth, with every detail reflecting luxury.
9. The classic film is the epitome of romance, capturing the essence of the genre.

Synonyms with Short Explanation

1. Paragon – A model of excellence or perfection in a particular quality.
2. Embodiment – A tangible or visible form of an idea or quality.
3. Model – A perfect example of a particular quality or style.
4. Quintessence – The most perfect or typical example of something.
5. Ideal – A person or thing regarded as perfect or the standard of perfection.

Related Words with Short Explanation

1. Exemplar – A person or thing serving as a typical example or model.
2. Prototype – An original model or first version of something, often serving as a reference.
3. Archetype – A very typical example of a certain person or thing.
4. Standard – A level of quality or achievement that is regarded as a measure or model to be followed.
5. Representation – A person or thing that exemplifies or symbolizes a particular quality or concept.

More Matches with Short Explanation

1. Icon – A person or thing regarded as a symbol or representative of a particular concept.
2. Stereotype – A widely held but oversimplified and generalized idea of a particular type of person or thing.
3. Essence – The intrinsic nature or most important quality of something.
4. Exemplar – An ideal or model example, often used in the context of behavior or achievement.
5. Symbol – An object, character, or figure that represents something beyond its literal meaning.

Antonyms

1. Antithesis
2. Opposite
3. Contrast
4. Flaw
5. Imperfect example