/ɪ'pɪtəmɪ; ɪ`pɪtəmɪ/
n
1 thing that shows on a small scale all the characteristics of sth much larger 梗概; 缩影
*The divisions we see in this school are the epitome of those occurring throughout the whole country. 我们在这所学校中看到的各个部门是全国各校的缩影.
2 person or thing that is a perfect example of a quality, type, etc 典型的人或事物
*the absolute epitome of a school teacher 中小学教师的典范
* She's the epitome of kindness. 她是仁慈的化身.
3 (dated 旧) short summary of a book, speech, etc （书、演讲等的）摘要.

n
[Date: 1500-1600; Language: Latin;Origin:Greek, from epitemnein 'to cut short', from epi- ( EPICENTER) + temnein 'to cut']
the epitome of sth
the best possible example of something
　She looked the epitome of elegance.
　He was the very epitome of evil.