EXAMPLE

One or a portion taken to show the character or quality of the whole; a sample; a specimen.

That which is to be followed or imitated as a model; a pattern or copy. For I have given you an example, that ye should do as John xiii. 15. I gave, thou sayest, the example; I led the way. Milton.

That which resembles or corresponds with something else; a precedent; a model. Such temperate order in so fierce a cause Doth want example. Shak.

That which is to be avoided; one selected for punishment and to serve as a warning; a warning. Hang him; he'll be made an example. Shak. Now these things were our examples, to the intent that we should not lust after evil things, as they also lusted. 1 Cor. x. 6.

An instance serving for illustration of a rule or precept, especially a problem to be solved, or a case to be determined, as an exercise in the application of the rules of any study or branch of science; as, in trigonometry and grammar, the principles and rules are illustrated by examples.

To set an example for; to give a precedent for; to exemplify; to give an instance of; to instance. [Obs.] "I may example my digression by some mighty precedent." Shak. Burke devoted himself to this duty with a fervid assiduity that has not often been exampled, and has never been surpassed. J. Morley.