ὑπογραμμός (G5261) — Greek Lexicon

ὑπογραμμός

hypogrammós

G5261 noun

SILEX Entry

Definition

An original writing or drawing set beneath another as a pattern for copying, used metaphorically for an example, model, or pattern to be imitated. In physical contexts, refers to a template or guide, such as a line over which letters are traced. Figuratively, denotes a model of conduct or behavior to be followed.

Semantic Range

guide for tracing letters, pattern or template, example to imitate, model for behavior

Root / Etymology

From ὑπό (under) and γραμμή (a line, from γράφω, to write). It properly refers to something written or drawn underneath as a guide or pattern.

Historical & Contextual Notes

In classical Greek, ὑπογραμμός was used mainly in the sense of a 'guiding line' for writing or drawing, such as a tracing or example intended for a student to reproduce. In the Hellenistic and Koine periods, the metaphorical extension predominated, coming to mean 'example' or 'model' for behavior or action. In the Septuagint, the term does not occur; its only New Testament attestation is in 1 Peter 2:21, where Christ is described as leaving an 'example' (ὑπογραμμός) for others to follow. Here the metaphor is drawn from the educational practice of students tracing letters over a pattern. Later Christian writers continued this metaphorical sense. English translations often render ὑπογραμμός as 'example,' but the pedagogical nuance related to imitation by tracing a visible original is not always preserved in translation.

Original Strong's Gloss (1890)

from a compound of ὑπό and γράφω; an underwriting, i.e. copy for imitation (figuratively):--example.

Root Family

ὑπογραμμός (hypogrammos) — underwriting, tracing guide, pattern, model for imitation

Root ὑπογραφ- to write under, to inscribe as a guide

Word Forms

1 distinct form

SIDANCE	Surface	Transliteration	Morphology	Common	SIBI-P1	SIBI-P2	Occurrences
`G5261-01`	ὑπογραμμὸν	upogrammon	`N ACC M SG`	an example	a tracing pattern	an example	1

Occurrences in Scripture

1 occurrence

SIDANCE	Reference	Word	Transliteration	Morphology	Common	SIBI-P1	SIBI-P2
`G5261-01`	1 Peter 2:21	ὑπογραμμὸν	upogrammon	`N ACC M SG`	an example	a tracing pattern	an example

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