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Nonpareil: meaning, definitions and examples

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nonpareil

 

[ nɒnˈpɛr.eɪl ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

matchless entity

The term 'nonpareil' refers to something that has no equal or match; it describes a person or thing that is unrivaled in quality or excellence. It is often used to highlight outstanding attributes that set someone or something apart from all others. Nonpareil can be applied in various contexts, including achievements in art, skill, or any field where one could be considered supreme. In literature, it frequently describes an unrivaled talent or masterpiece.

Synonyms

incomparable, peerless, superlative, unequaled, unmatched

Examples of usage

  • He is a nonpareil chef known for his unmatched culinary skills.
  • The artist was considered a nonpareil in the world of modern art.
  • Her performance in the play was truly nonpareil.
  • In the realm of technology, this innovation is nonpareil.
  • The nonpareil landscape of the national park attracts tourists.

Translations

Translations of the word "nonpareil" in other languages:

🇵🇹 incomparável

🇮🇳 अतुलनीय

🇩🇪 unvergleichlich

🇮🇩 tak tertandingi

🇺🇦 незрівнянний

🇵🇱 nieporównywalny

🇯🇵 比類のない

🇫🇷 inégalé

🇪🇸 incomparable

🇹🇷 eşsiz

🇰🇷 비할 데 없는

🇸🇦 لا يضاهى

🇨🇿 neporovnatelný

🇸🇰 neporovnateľný

🇨🇳 无与伦比

🇸🇮 neprimerljiv

🇮🇸 óviðjafnanlegur

🇰🇿 салыстыруға келмейтін

🇬🇪 შეუდარებელი

🇦🇿 bənzərsiz

🇲🇽 incomparable

Etymology

The word 'nonpareil' comes from the Middle French term 'nonpareil', which literally translates to 'not equal'. It originally described a type of printing type that was smaller than any other, thus 'unmatched' in size. This term evolved in the English language around the late 15th century, where it began to take on the broader meanings we associate with it today, particularly characterizing individuals or items that were considered superior or unmatched in quality. The roots of the word stem from Latin 'non' meaning 'not' and 'par' meaning 'equal', reinforcing its significance in denoting something exceptional and without comparison. Over time, 'nonpareil' has been used across various disciplines including literature, art, and science, firmly establishing its place in the lexicon for describing excellence.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #36,480, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.