Meaning & Definition of word "Epitome"

Epitome

/ɪˈpɪtəmi/

noun:

  • 1. a person or thing that is a perfect example of a particular quality or type.
    • Example: She is the epitome of grace and elegance.
  • 2. a summary of a written work; an abstract.
    • Example: The book is a concise epitome of the author's theories.
  • 3. a brief presentation or summary of certain details.
    • Example: The report serves as an epitome of the findings from the years of research.

Etymology

From Greek 'epitome' meaning 'a summary or abstract', from 'epitemnein' meaning 'to cut short'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

the epitome of:

The best example of a certain quality.

epitome of excellence:

A representation of the highest quality.

walking epitome:

A person who is a representative example of a particular trait.

Related Words

exemplar:

A person or thing serving as a typical example.

archetype:

A very typical example of a certain person or thing.

incarnation:

A person who embodies in the flesh a deity, spirit, or abstract quality.

Slang Meanings of epitome

Meaning: Top-tier

Example Sentence: That new smartphone is the top-tier of innovation.

Meaning: Class act

Example Sentence: He's a class act in the business world.