Definition
The most perfect or typical example of something; the pure, concentrated essence of a thing at its finest. In chemistry and philosophy, it originally referred to a fifth element beyond the classical four (earth, water, air, fire).
Example Usage
Her performance was the quintessence of elegance and grace.
Origin
From Latin 'quinta essentia', meaning 'fifth essence', a medieval philosophical and alchemical concept.
Fun Fact
In medieval philosophy, the quintessence was believed to be the incorruptible substance that made up the celestial bodies.
Source: Definition backfill (hailey)
Related Terms
Translate This Term
See “Quintessence” in Corporate Speak, Gen-Z Slang, Pirate Speak, and more.
Try the Translator