Sample
/ˈsæm.pəl/noun
A small part or quantity intended to show what the whole is like.
Did you know?The word 'sample' originates from the Latin 'exemplum', which means 'sacred offering'—a nod to the ritualistic nature of early offerings and tests.
Etymological Timeline
Late Latin
Latin
exemplum
“A model or pattern, often used for religious or sacrificial offerings.”
Old French
Old French
essample
“A model or example, derived from Latin, used to indicate a representative part.”
Middle English
Middle English
sampl
“A portion or specimen used for testing or demonstration.”
Modern English
English
sample
“A representative part or quantity, often used in various fields for analysis.”