noun

quintessence

Quintessence (noun) means a thing that is the most perfect example of its type; the most perfect embodiment of something; epitome, prototype.

noun

A thing that is the most perfect example of its type; the most perfect embodiment of something; epitome, prototype.

A pure substance.

The essence of a thing in its purest and most concentrated form.

The fifth alchemical element, or essence, after earth, air, fire, and water that fills the universe beyond the terrestrial sphere.

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Etymology

PIE word *pénkʷe From Middle English, borrowed from Middle French, from Medieval Latin quinta essentia (“fifth essence, aether”), equivalent to quint- + essence. "Essence" in this context is a synonym for "element". In pre-atomic/Aristotelian theory, there are four known elements or essences — Earth, Air, Fire and Water — and a putative fifth element (aether), which is considered to be of exceptional superior quality to the other four basic elements.

Rhymes for quintessence

hence fence whence thence Spence valence absence science silence defence essence ambience

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Frequently asked questions

What is the meaning of quintessence?

"quintessence" (noun) means a thing that is the most perfect example of its type; the most perfect embodiment of something; epitome, prototype.

What are the different meanings of quintessence?

"quintessence" has 3 main meanings: 1. A thing that is the most perfect example of its type; the most perfect embodiment of something; epitome, prototype; 2. A pure substance; 3. The essence of a thing in its purest and most concentrated form.