quintessential

adjective

ˌkwin-tə-ˈsen(t)-shəl How to pronounce quintessential (audio)
Definition of quintessentialnext
as in classic
constituting, serving as, or worthy of being a pattern to be imitated Helen of Troy was supposedly the quintessential beauty of the ancient world

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of quintessential The singer’s dress hailed from the Australian brand’s spring 2026 bridal collection, and merged that quintessential bridal feel with red-carpet-ready elements. — Julia Teti, Footwear News, 22 Oct. 2026 But whether or not her reaction to Abott and Costello was genuine or manufactured, her reaction to Fielder was the perfect punch line to a quintessential Nathan for You–style joke. — Hershal Pandya, Vulture, 21 Oct. 2026 Its frothy, pastel hues and single moment of contrived levity (when one dance claims a trumpet solo for a joke about jamming her toe) is one of those quintessential examples of Balanchine’s repertoire showing its age. — Lauren Warnecke, Chicago Tribune, 18 Oct. 2026 The menu is built around a trio of arepas, a quintessential Venezuelan comfort food of griddled cornmeal cakes split and stuffed with fillings as varied as the cooks making them. — Jenn Harris, Los Angeles Times, 15 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for quintessential
Recent Examples of Synonyms for quintessential
  1. classic
  2. exemplary
  3. perfect
  4. archetypal
  5. definitive
  6. excellent
Adjective
  • The collection follows a very classic autumnal color palette, with speckles of burgundy, brown, khaki, and deep greens.
    — Bianca Kratky, Glamour, 23 Oct. 2026
  • Rooms Standard rooms are classic in look and feel with dark wood furniture and neutral fabrics, yet appointed with modern embellishments such as universal outlets and bedside light controls.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 23 Oct. 2026
Definition of classic
Adjective
  • Setting the standard for luxury with exemplary service and culinary offerings, all at the heart of Santa Fe’s rich cultural center.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 7 Oct. 2026
  • In 2023, Leslie Van Houten was granted parole and released after holding what many described as an exemplary record for decades behind bars.
    — Richard Winton, Los Angeles Times, 7 Oct. 2026
Definition of exemplary
Adjective
  • The loss spelled the end of the Chiefs’ perfect 5-0 start to the season.
    — Jeff Rosen, Kansas City Star, 26 Oct. 2026
  • Sheet cake recipes are the easiest way to feed dessert to a crowd, meaning this recipe is perfect for the holidays.
    — Mary Shannon Wells, Southern Living, 25 Oct. 2026
Definition of perfect
Adjective
  • For Corn, this misunderstanding is key to the painting’s success, allowing for endless adaptation of the archetypal form of two figures joined in union.
    — Kelly Presutti, ARTnews.com, 23 Oct. 2026
  • Twenty-seven years later, the attack on a school in the Denver suburbs retains an archetypal mystique for generations of troubled young people.
    — Rachel Monroe, New Yorker, 23 Oct. 2026
Definition of archetypal
Adjective
  • Jewish Baseball News — an independent organization that maintains the definitive roster of Jewish players in professional baseball — applies a deliberately inclusive standard.
    — Zachary Kranc, Sun Sentinel, 27 Oct. 2026
  • Sphere Entertainment has said the venue could open before 2030, pending definitive agreements and necessary approvals.
    — CBS Baltimore, CBS News, 27 Oct. 2026
Definition of definitive
Adjective
  • His 28-yard touchdown reception from Sam Darnold late in the second quarter beat Delane, who had excellent position.
    — Blair Kerkhoff, Kansas City Star, 26 Oct. 2026
  • The biggest key for the Brewers in this game is to see if their bullpen can keep their excellent pitching alive.
    — OutKick, FOXNews.com, 26 Oct. 2026
Definition of excellent

Browse Nearby Words

quintessences
quintessential
quintet
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Cite this Entry

“Quintessential.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/quintessential. Accessed 28 Oct. 2026.

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