recherché

[ruh-shair-shey, ruh-shair-shey, ruh-sher-shey]

adjective

1. very rare, exotic, or choice; arcane; esoteric.

   Synonyms: choice, exotic, rare

2. of studied refinement or elegance; precious; affected; pretentious.

3. sought out with care.

recherché

/ rəˈʃɛəʃeɪ, rəʃɛrʃe /

adjective

1. known only to connoisseurs; choice or rare

2. studiedly refined or elegant

Word History and Origins

Origin of recherché¹

First recorded in 1680–90; from French, past participle of rechercher “to search for carefully”; research

Word History and Origins

Origin of recherché¹

C18: from French: past participle of rechercher to make a thorough search for; see _research

Related Words

• chic 
• classic 
• delicate 
• dignified 
• exquisite 
• fancy 
• fashionable 
• graceful 
• grand 
• handsome 
• luxurious 
• neat 
• opulent 
• ornate 
• polished 
• refined 
• silk-stocking 
• simple 
• stately 
• stylish