δειγματίζω

deigmatízō

G1165 verb

SILEX Entry

Root δειγ- to show, to display, to make an example

Definition

To display openly, make an example of, publicly expose (often to disgrace or shame). The primary sense is to exhibit someone or something before others in such a manner as to serve as an example—often for admonition, warning, or humiliation. In some contexts, emphasizes exposure to public ridicule or censure rather than neutral display.

Semantic Range

to display openly, to expose to public view, to make an example (especially for admonition or warning), to subject to public disgrace or shame

Root / Etymology

From the noun δεῖγμα (deigma, 'sample', 'example', 'specimen'), itself derived from the root δεικ- (to show, to point out).

Historical & Contextual Notes

δειγματίζω is very rare and primarily attested in Koine Greek, appearing, for example, in Matthew 1:19 and in early Christian writings. The word means more than a simple 'showing'; it frequently carries connotations of shame or public humiliation, akin to making someone a cautionary example. The verb may be contrasted with παραδειγματίζω, which intensifies the sense of public disgrace (by prefixing παρά-), though both can overlap in meaning. In the LXX and NT, δειγματίζω appears with the nuance of exposing someone's faults or supposed guilt to the community, rather than merely presenting someone or something neutrally. Traditional translations (such as KJV 'make a public example') reflect the more negative, shame-focused use but may obscure the subtler shades of 'display as a warning' or 'exhibit for didactic purpose.' The root sense of 'to show' remains present but the specific context governs whether disgrace or warning is foregrounded.

Original Strong's Gloss (1890)

from δεῖγμα; to exhibit:--make a shew.

Root Family

δειγματίζω (deigmatizō) — to show, to display, to make an example

Word Forms

2 distinct forms

SIDANCE Surface Transliteration Morphology Common SIBI-P1 Occurrences
G1165-02 ἐδειγμάτισεν edeigmatisen V AOR ACT IND 3P SG he made a public display of he publicly exposed 1
G1165-01 δειγματίσαι deigmatisai V AOR ACT INF to expose to publicly expose 1

Occurrences in Scripture

2 total occurrences

SIDANCE Reference Word Transliteration Morphology Common SIBI-P1
G1165-01 Matthew 1:19 δειγματίσαι deigmatisai V AOR ACT INF to expose to publicly expose
G1165-02 Colossians 2:15 ἐδειγμάτισεν edeigmatisen V AOR ACT IND 3P SG he made a public display of he publicly exposed