quintessential

American  

[kwin-tuh-sen-shuhl] / ˌkwɪn təˈsɛn ʃəl /

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.

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quintessential British  

/ ˌkwɪntɪˈsɛnʃəl /

adjective

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

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Other Word Forms

• quintessentially adverb

Etymology

Origin of quintessential

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

Example Sentences

Contrast the tech companies’ reporting methods with the longstanding approach by two railroad companies, in a quintessentially asset-heavy industry.

From The Wall Street Journal

While Bad Bunny’s performance is likely to be more subtle and celebratory, having the world’s biggest Latin artist play at the most quintessentially American cultural event is a statement in itself.

From Los Angeles Times

The ceremony hit on the quintessential northern Italian experience.

From Los Angeles Times

On that quintessentially sunny January day, Toliver wore an equally blinding, all-white outfit in contrast to the bright yellows of the racer.

From Los Angeles Times

For months, activists have been demanding more support from city leadership, explained Elias Siegelman, an activist who works with No ICE Philly, which meets in the quintessentially Pennsylvanian location of a Quaker meeting house.

From Salon

Related Words

• typical
• ultimate