quintessence — the most perfect or typical example of a quality or class
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: the most perfect or typical example of a quality or class
Pronunciation (IPA): /kwɪnˈtesəns/
Example Sentences
- My grandmother's apple pie is the quintessence of comfort food.
- That celebrity's dramatic exit from the restaurant was the quintessence of attention-seeking behavior.
- The tiny cottage with roses climbing the walls was the quintessence of English countryside charm.
quintessence
NOUN[/kwɪnˈtesəns/]
the most perfect or typical example of a quality or class
This tiny teacup captures the quintessence of Japanese tea ceremony tradition.
The quintessence captures pure essence in the master's presence.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Latin 'quinta essentia' meaning 'fifth essence,' based on medieval philosophy's concept of the fifth element (after earth, water, air, and fire) that was believed to be the purest form of matter.
Breakdown
quint- (five) + essence (essential nature/being) = quintessence (the fifth and most perfect essence)
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“My grandmother's apple pie is the quintessence of comfort food.”
“That celebrity's dramatic exit from the restaurant was the quintessence of attention-seeking behavior.”
“The tiny cottage with roses climbing the walls was the quintessence of English countryside charm.”
“His ability to burn toast while making cereal is the quintessence of kitchen disasters.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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