How Do You Spell QUINTESSENTIAL?

Pronunciation: [kwˌɪntɪsˈɛnʃə͡l] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "quintessential" can be tricky, but can be explained phonetically using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The first syllable is pronounced as /kwɪn/ which starts with a "kw" sound, followed by a short "i" sound and a "n" sound. The second syllable is pronounced as /tɛˈsɛnʃəl/ which starts with a "t" sound, followed by a stressed "ɛ" sound, and ends with a "nʃ" sound that is similar to "sh". Therefore, the correct spelling of this word is "quintessential".

QUINTESSENTIAL Meaning and Definition

1. The term "quintessential" is an adjective that refers to something that is regarded as the most perfect, typical, or representative example of its kind. It signifies the embodiment, essence, or quintessence of a particular quality, idea, or character.

   The quintessential serves as a benchmark for comparison, setting the standard by which other things are measured or judged. It epitomizes the fundamental nature or essential characteristics of a particular concept or group. It represents the purest or most complete form of its kind, exhibiting all the defining features or qualities.

   For an individual, the quintessential might refer to their most authentic or truest self, capturing their core attributes and fulfilling their potential. In literature, a quintessential character is one that typifies or symbolizes a specific archetype, therefore, being highly representative of a particular category of people or persona. In terms of art, a quintessential work would be considered the ultimate or definitive expression of a style, school, or movement.

   The term can also be used to describe a place, an event, or an experience that epitomizes the most desired or idealized aspects of a certain locale or context. It signifies the embodiment of the most esteemed or emblematic elements associated with that specific setting.

   Overall, "quintessential" is employed to emphasize how something defines, represents, or encompasses the pure or essential nature of its kind, making it the ultimate example or standard for comparison.

2. Consisting of quintessence.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for QUINTESSENTIAL *

• quintesential 21.1538461%
• quinessential 11.5384615%
• quintessntial 5.7692307%
• quintisential 5.7692307%
• quintessiantial 3.8461538%
• quentessential 3.8461538%
• quentissential 3.8461538%
• quintensentil 3.8461538%
• quintissential 3.8461538%
• quentessentuial 3.8461538%

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for QUINTESSENTIAL

• quintessintial
• quintecential
• quintensential
• quientessential
• quintessencial
• qunitessential
• quintessencia
• quinquessential
• quaintessential
• quintessensial

Etymology of QUINTESSENTIAL

The word "quintessential" originated from the Latin word "quintus", meaning "fifth", and the medieval Latin term "quinta essentia", translated as "fifth essence". In medieval philosophy and alchemy, it was believed that all matter consisted of four elements: earth, air, fire, and water. Quintessence referred to a hypothetical fifth element that was pure and concentrated, transcending the physical world. Over time, the term was adopted into English and became associated with the highest or most perfect embodiment of something.

Similar spelling word for QUINTESSENTIAL

• quintessence.