'exemplar' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'exemplum,' where 'ex-' meant 'out of' and 'emere' meant 'to take.'

'exemplum' transformed into the Old French word 'essample,' and eventually became the modern English word 'exemplar' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'a sample or example,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a model or pattern to be imitated.'