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TODAY’S WORD
Quintessential
/ˌkwɪn.tɪˈsen.ʃəl/
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Meaning & Definition
Representing the most perfect or typical example of a quality or class; the purest essence of something. When something is described as quintessential, it embodies the fundamental nature or most important qualities of what it represents.
Part of Speech
Adjective
Synonyms
Archetypal
Typical
Classic
Representative
Definitive
Antonyms
Atypical
Uncharacteristic
Nonrepresentative
Anomalous
Usage & Example Sentences
“The little black dress is considered the quintessential item in every woman’s wardrobe.”
“His mannerisms were the quintessential example of British politeness and reserve.”
“For many, Paris represents the quintessential romantic city destination.”
Word Origin
From Latin “quinta essentia” meaning “fifth essence”. In ancient and medieval philosophy, this referred to the fifth element (after earth, air, fire, and water) that permeated all nature and composed the heavenly bodies. The term entered English in the 16th century.
Quintessential
Ephemeral
Ubiquitous
Serendipity
Eloquent
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