exemplar

noun ex·em·plar \ig-ˈzem-ˌplär, -plər, eg-\

: an admired person or thing that is considered an example that deserves to be copied

: a typical example

Full Definition of EXEMPLAR

: one that serves as a model or example: as

a : an ideal model

b : a typical or standard specimen <an exemplar of medieval architecture>

c : a copy of a book or writing

d : idea 1a

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Origin of EXEMPLAR

Middle English, from Latin, from exemplum example

First Known Use: 15th century

Related to EXEMPLAR

Synonyms: case, example, exemplification, illustration, instance, prototype, representative, sample, specimen

Synonym Discussion of EXEMPLAR

model, example, pattern, exemplar, ideal mean someone or something set before one for guidance or imitation. model applies to something taken or proposed as worthy of imitation <a decor that is a model of good taste>. example applies to a person to be imitated or in some contexts on no account to be imitated but to be regarded as a warning <children tend to follow the example of their parents>. pattern suggests a clear and detailed archetype or prototype <American industry set a pattern for others to follow>. exemplar suggests either a faultless example to be emulated or a perfect typification <cited Joan of Arc as the exemplar of courage>. ideal implies the best possible exemplification either in reality or in conception <never found a job that matched his ideal>.

Rhymes with EXEMPLAR

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Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for "exemplar"

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