1. the most perfect or typical example of a quality or class
2. the most essential aspect of something
3. in ancient philosophy, the fifth element believed to compose celestial bodies
Usage: historical; philosophy

Examples

• She was the quintessence of elegance at the formal dinner.
• The small café captured the quintessence of Parisian charm.
• His speech revealed the quintessence of his political philosophy.
• The painting represents the quintessence of Renaissance art.
• The novel distills the quintessence of human experience.
• Ancient Greeks believed quintessence was purer than earthly elements.
• The garden party was the quintessence of summer entertaining.