Daily Word Box

Word

quintessential

adjective C1

Meanings

adjective

Being the most typical, classic, or perfect example of a particular kind of person or thing.

Visual cue for quintessential — meaning 1
adjective

Representing the most important or defining qualities of something; capturing its essential character.

Visual cue for quintessential — meaning 2

Definition

Quintessential means being the most typical or perfect example of something.

Quintessential describes someone or something that represents the clearest, most typical example of a particular quality or type. It is used to highlight what people commonly think of as the “classic” version. You often see it before a noun, especially in formal writing.

Examples

  • She has the quintessential calm voice of a good teacher.
  • That film is the quintessential story of friendship.
  • The cottage looks quintessential, with roses climbing the front wall.
  • He wore the quintessential black suit to the formal dinner.