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  • extra-virgin
    extra-virgin
    adjective
    made from the first pressing of highest-quality olives.
  • extra virgin
    extra virgin
    adjective
    (of olive oil) of the highest quality, extracted by cold pressing rather than chemical treatment

extra-virgin

American  
[ek-struh-vur-jin] / ˌɛk strəˈvɜr dʒɪn /

adjective

  1. made from the first pressing of highest-quality olives.


extra virgin British  

adjective

  1. (of olive oil) of the highest quality, extracted by cold pressing rather than chemical treatment

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Extra virgin olive oil is obtained using mechanical methods, which help preserve its natural compounds.

From Science Daily • Apr. 18, 2026

Extra virgin olive oil, for example, is packed with antioxidants and beneficial compounds but its low smoke point means it is better for salad dressings or drizzling over food rather than deep frying.

From BBC • Oct. 1, 2025

Extra virgin olive oil, which is rich in antioxidants, is the main source of fat.

From Los Angeles Times • May 31, 2024

Extra virgin olive oil is unrefined and made from the first pressing of the olive fruit.

From Seattle Times • Nov. 9, 2022

Extra virgin olive oil comes in handy on a variety of occasions, whether you're whipping up a basic vinaigrette, sautéing vegetables or baking Martha Stewart's no-knead tomato focaccia.

From Salon • Jul. 20, 2022