exemplary Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. adjective satellite worthy of imitation
    model.
    • exemplary behavior
    • model citizens
  2. adjective satellite being or serving as an illustration of a type;
    typic; emblematic.
    • the free discussion that is emblematic of democracy
    • an action exemplary of his conduct
  3. adjective satellite serving to warn
    admonitory; warning; cautionary; monitory.
    • shook a monitory finger at him
    • an exemplary jail sentence

WordNet

Ex"em*pla*ry adjective
Etymology
L. exemplaris, fr. exemplar: cf. F. exemplaire. See Exemplar.
Definitions
  1. Serving as a pattern; deserving to be proposed for imitation; commendable; as, an exemplary person; exemplary conduct.
    [Bishops'] lives and doctrines ought to be exemplary. Bacon.
  2. Serving as a warning; monitory; as, exemplary justice, punishment, or damages.
  3. Illustrating as the proof of a thing. Fuller.
Ex"em*pla*ry noun
Definitions
  1. An exemplar; also, a copy of a book or writing. Obs. Donne.

Webster 1913