Quintessential
/ˌkwɪn.tɪˈsɛn.ʃəl/noun
Representing the most perfect or typical example of a quality or class.
Did you know?The 'quint' in quintessential refers to the ancient belief in five essential elements—earth, water, air, fire, and aether—thought to compose the universe.
Etymological Timeline
Latin
Latin
quintessentia
“The fifth essence, beyond the four known elements.”
Medieval Latin
Medieval Latin
quintessentia
“The essence of a substance viewed as the purest form.”
15th Century
Old French
quintessence
“The fifth essence or an essential part of something.”
16th Century
English
quintessence
“The most perfect or typical example of a quality or class.”
19th Century
English
quintessential
“Pertaining to the most perfect or typical example of a quality.”
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