quintessential

[ kwin-tuh-sen-shuhl ]

adjective

1. of the pure and essential essence of something:

   the quintessential Jewish delicatessen.

2. of or relating to the most perfect embodiment of something:

   the quintessential performance of the Brandenburg Concertos.

quintessential

/ ˌkwɪntɪˈsɛnʃəl /

adjective

1. most typically representative of a quality, state, etc; perfect

Derived Forms

• ˌquintesˈsentially, adverb

Other Words From

• quintes·sential·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of quintessential¹

First recorded in 1545–55; quintessence ( def ) + -ial ( def ), on the pattern of essential ( def )

Example Sentences

A subtle camera push heightens the alluring atmosphere that paints a portrait of quintessential Joker: juxtaposing beauty with anarchy.

From Los Angeles Times

And yet that quintessential institutionalist, who prided himself on his ability to work with Congress, nonetheless veered in the direction of presidential unilateralism in the conduct of foreign affairs.

From Salon

“The colors and sepia-toned aesthetic of the intro set a cozy, nostalgic tone that aligns so well with the fall season, making it feel like a quintessential autumn show.”

From Los Angeles Times

Zehme captures the magnificence of Carson the performer, the quintessential showman, who knew exactly what his audiences wanted, where the boundaries were and how to push them ever so lightly.

From Los Angeles Times

This program was thus a quintessential example of a systematic purge.

From Slate

Related Words

• typical
• ultimate