must-have
Americannoun
adjective
noun
adjective
Etymology
Origin of must-have
First recorded in 1835–40; noun use of verb phrase must have
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.
I loved this tip I saw in an Instagram reel: Pack your must-have spices in one of those plastic pill containers so you don’t have to buy or tote spice jars.
From The Wall Street Journal • May 22, 2026
Among portfolio managers for larger funds, SpaceX "is probably viewed as a must-have stock," said Roberts.
From Barron's • May 17, 2026
Growing up, it was a must-have treat after long trips with my mom to the local shopping mall.
From Salon • Apr. 28, 2026
Paramount is planning to merge its Paramount+ service with Warner Bros' HBO Max to create what it hopes would be a must-have streaming service that can hold its own against competitors Netflix, Amazon and Disney.
From BBC • Apr. 23, 2026
Climbing trees is a must-have skill for survival—particularly if there is a predator, such as a leopard,around.
From "Camp Panda" by Catherine Thimmesh
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
