adj
quintessential
kwihn-tih-SEHN-shuhl
Quintessential (adj) means representing the most perfect or typical example of something. Example: “A cosy pub by a fireplace is the quintessential English winter scene.”
adj
1
Representing the most perfect or typical example of something.
"A cosy pub by a fireplace is the quintessential English winter scene."
"He's the quintessential absent-minded professor."
How to use quintessential
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe most perfect, typical, or defining example of a type of thing.
Common pairings
the quintessential example
quintessentially British
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Word forms
- Plural
- quintessentials
- Comparative
- more quintessential
- Superlative
- most quintessential
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
A cosy pub by a fireplace is the _____ English winter scene.
Etymology
Built from "quintessence" plus the adjective suffix "-al"; "quintessence" itself comes from the old idea of a mysterious "fifth element" beyond earth, air, fire, and water.
Rhymes for quintessential
See all rhymes for quintessential →Frequently asked questions
What does “quintessential” mean?
The word “quintessential” means representing the most perfect or typical example of something. In plain terms, the most perfect, typical, or defining example of a type of thing.
How do you pronounce “quintessential”?
“Quintessential” is pronounced kwihn-tih-SEHN-shuhl (/ˌkwɪntɪˈsɛnʃəl/ in IPA).
How do you use “quintessential” in a sentence?
Here is “quintessential” used in a sentence: “A cosy pub by a fireplace is the quintessential English winter scene.”
What part of speech is “quintessential”?
“Quintessential” is an adjective.
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