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paragon

noun

/ˈparəɡ(ə)n/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of paragon

A person or thing that is regarded as the embodiment of excellence, perfection, or an ideal standard in a particular category or quality.
"The musician was a paragon of talent and dedication."

Detailed meaning of paragon

It signifies the highest level of quality, virtue, or achievement and serves as a benchmark against which others are measured. A paragon can be an individual known for their outstanding qualities, such as a paragon of virtue or a paragon of beauty, or it can represent an exceptional example of a particular category, like a paragon of craftsmanship or a paragon of integrity. "Paragon" underscores the concept of unparalleled excellence and is often used to highlight the best possible example of a specific attribute or quality.

Example sentences containing paragon

1. She was a paragon of grace and poise on the dance floor.
2. His classic novel is considered a paragon of storytelling.
3. Einstein is often seen as a paragon of genius in physics.
4. The luxury car was a paragon of engineering and design.
5. She's a paragon of kindness, always helping those in need.
6. The athlete became a paragon of dedication and perseverance.

History and etymology of paragon

The noun 'paragon' traces its etymological origins to the Italian word 'paragone,' which means 'touchstone' or 'comparison.' The term 'paragone' was used in the context of testing the quality of precious metals like gold and silver by comparing them to a standard reference, often a black stone known as a touchstone. This practice allowed for the assessment of purity and authenticity. In the late 16th century, the word 'paragon' was adopted into English with the figurative sense of comparing something to a standard of excellence. Over time, it came to signify a person or thing that is regarded as the embodiment of excellence, perfection, or an ideal standard in a particular category or quality, reflecting its historical association with the process of comparing and evaluating to determine the best or finest example.

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Further usage examples of paragon

1. Their teamwork was a paragon of effective collaboration.
2. The historic monument is a paragon of architectural beauty.
3. The old oak tree is a paragon of strength and endurance.
4. Her leadership qualities make her a paragon of success.
5. The artwork is a paragon of creativity and innovation.
6. The charity's founder is a paragon of selflessness.
7. The concert pianist is a paragon of musical talent.
8. The small town is often called a paragon of community spirit.
9. The mountain peak stands as a paragon of natural beauty.
10. The historic speech is a paragon of eloquence and inspiration.
11. The boutique is a paragon of style and luxury.
12. His culinary skills make him a paragon of gourmet cooking.
13. The nonprofit organization is a paragon of social change.
14. The smartphone is a paragon of modern technology.
15. The volunteer was a paragon of selflessness and generosity.
16. He portrayed himself to be a paragon of truth.
17. It was supposed to be a paragon of democracy but it became subverted by corruption and narcissism.
18. Her behaviour was certainly no paragon of virtue.
19. The athlete was considered a paragon of sportsmanship and fair play.
20. The scientist's work was a paragon of clarity and precision.
21. The teacher was a paragon of patience and kindness.
22. The artist's paintings were considered paragons of beauty and craftsmanship.
23. The chef's dishes were paragons of flavor and presentation.
24. The writer's books were paragons of storytelling and prose.
25. The pastor's behaviour was a paragon of decency and decorum.
26. The company was a paragon of corporate responsibility and sustainability.
27. The athlete's performances were paragons of skill and endurance.
28. The politician was a paragon of integrity and public service.
29. The volunteer's work was a paragon of compassion and dedication.