nonpareil etymology

Etymology:

• French: nonpareil, from Old French: non pareil, meaning "without equal"

Meaning:

• Exceptional in quality or character; matchless; peerless

Origin:

The term "nonpareil" first appeared in the 14th century in the context of language and poetry. It referred to something that was considered unparalleled in terms of its beauty, eloquence, or originality. Over time, the term was extended to other areas, including art, fashion, and general excellence.

In the 16th century, the term was used to describe a small, round type of candy made from sugar and almond. The candy's exceptional sweetness and delicate texture earned it the name "nonpareil," meaning "without equal."

The term has also been used in a figurative sense to refer to someone or something that is matchless or extraordinary. For example, the 19th-century French playwright Alfred de Musset described the character of Fantasio as "nonpareil," highlighting his unique and unmatched qualities.

nonpareil relate terms

• paragon

  Etymology New Latin from Greek parágōnos beside by along from para along besi

• saint

  Etymology The word saint comes from the Latin word sanctus which means holy or co

• nonsuch

  Etymology and Origin of Nonsuch The word nonsuch has its origins in the Middle Englis

• sweet

  Etymology The word sweet comes from the Old English word swēte which itself evolve

• stain

  Etymology Latin tinctūra dyeing coloring Old French taincture Middle English ste

• satin

  Etymology Middle English satyn from Anglo French satin from Medieval Latin sattu nu

• confection

  Etymology The word confection comes from the Latin word confectio which means a ma

• model

  Etymology Model comes from the Old French word modelle which itself comes from the L

• cracker jack

  Etymology The term crackerjack is thought to have originated from the 1890s when it