Dictionary.com | Meanings & Definitions of English Words (original) (raw)

quintessential

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.

/ ˌkwɪntɪˈsɛnʃəl /

adjective

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

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Derived Forms

• ˌquintesˈsentially, adverb

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Other Words From

• quintes·sential·ly adverb

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Word History and Origins

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Example Sentences

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

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.

“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.”

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.

Then, I’m looking at the guy next to me who is the quintessential sleazy, greasy guy smoking a cigarette, eating his chicken, with the sunglasses on inside and the greasy mustache.