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example

example definition

ex·am·ple (eg zam′pəl, ig-; -zäm-)

noun

something selected to show the nature or character of the rest; single part or unit used as a sample; typical instance
a case, punishment, etc. that serves as a warning or caution to fine a speeder as an example to others
a person or thing to be imitated; model; pattern; precedent
a problem, as in mathematics, designed to illustrate a principle or method

Etymology: ME < OFr example, essample < L exemplum, sample, example < eximere, to take out < ex-, out + emere, to buy < IE base *em-, to take > Lith imù

transitive verb exampled -·pled, exampling -·pling

to exemplify: obs., except in the passive

example Idioms

for example

as an example; by way of illustration

set an example

to behave so as to be a pattern or model for others to imitate

Webster's New World College Dictionary Copyright © 2009 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.