exemplum

noun
UK: /ɪɡˈzempləm/
US: /ɪɡˈzempləm/

  1. An example or model, especially one that serves as a warning or deterrent.

    1. The story of Icarus is an exemplum of the dangers of hubris.
    2. His life became an exemplum of dedication and service to the community illustrating how one can be useful.

  2. A moral example or illustrative story, often used in medieval sermons or literature.

    1. The preacher told an exemplum about honesty to the children.
    2. Many medieval texts use the exemplum to illustrate moral points and engage the listener.

Synonyms

example model illustration paradigm instance warning lesson story

Frequently Asked Questions

The word "exemplum" in English means: An example or model, especially one that serves as a warning or deterrent., A moral example or illustrative story, often used in medieval sermons or literature..

The phonetic transcription of "exemplum" is /ɪɡˈzempləm/ in British English and /ɪɡˈzempləm/ in American English. Click the 🔊 button to hear both pronunciations.

Synonyms for "exemplum": example, model, illustration, paradigm, instance, warning, lesson, story.

Example usage of "exemplum": "The story of Icarus is an exemplum of the dangers of hubris.". More examples on the page.