genuine article

[ jen-yoo-in ahr-ti-kuhl, jen-yoo-ahyn ]

noun

, Slang.

1. the genuine article, a person or thing that is an excellent, authentic, or true example of their type, rather than just an imitation:

   Don’t buy mass-produced T-shirts that weren’t really tie-dyed—we’ve got the genuine article!

   When it comes to real-life heroes, Lieutenant Shapiro is the genuine article.

Pronunciation Note

See genuine ( def ).

Word History and Origins

Origin of genuine article¹

First recorded in 1790–95

Example Sentences

Ohtani wanted the genuine article and told reporters after the game, “For me, it’s a very special ball, so I’m thankful.”

From Los Angeles Times

The resulting constructions, the study authors report, looked, felt, and smelled just like the genuine article—and even had the durability of natural wood.

From Science Magazine

Trump-imitators have not fared as well as the genuine article.

From Salon

Right now Bachelor Nation youths love the "Golden" season, as do the Olds, because the network sold Turner as the genuine article.

From Salon

For the genuine article, try Naxos’ new, unabridged recording of “The Phantom of the Opera,” in which the sumptuous grotesqueries of Gaston Leroux’s oft-adapted 1910 novel are further empurpled by the rich sepulchral timbre of Bill Homewood’s voice, in a deliciously ghastly narration.

From Seattle Times