exemplum

[ ig-zem-pluh m ]

/ ɪgˈzɛm pləm /

an example or model.

an anecdote that illustrates or supports a moral point, as in a medieval sermon.

Origin of exemplum

1885–90; < Late Latin, Latin: literally, a pattern, model, copy

Sub stricta instruens regula, uultu et habitu, sermone et uita, se eis in exemplum exhibuit.

The Latin & Irish Lives of Ciaran |Anonymous
Exemplum sutorem pauperem sollicitavit ut corvum institueret ad parem salutationem.

Selections from Viri Romae |Charles Franois L'Homond
Transeat in exemplum—Let it stand as a precedent, or an example.

Dictionary of Quotations from Ancient and Modern, English and Foreign Sources |James Wood
Exemplum: As David of Trebizond has told me, when they wipe out the population of a city, they know there will be a few survivors.

The Saracen: Land of the Infidel |Robert Shea

This story is a sort of exemplum of the sin of pride and avarice.

Filipino Popular Tales |Dean S. Fansler

exemplum

/ (ɪɡˈzɛmpləm) /

an anecdote that supports a moral point or sustains an argument, used esp in medieval sermons

an example or illustration

from Latin: example