What does nonpareil mean?
Nonpareil is an elegant word for something that has no equal. As an adjective, it describes a person, achievement, performance, or quality that is unsurpassed, although modern speakers often prefer words such as unparalleled, unmatched, or exceptional. As a noun, nonpareil can refer to an outstanding person or thing, or to a standard of excellence: something may be called the nonpareil of its kind. The word also names a small, flat chocolate candy with a vanilla-cream center, usually covered with sprinkles, and in North American cannabis slang it can mean a particularly large joint. Its elevated tone and old-fashioned flavor make it especially useful in formal writing about rare achievement, exceptional artistry, or distinguished achievement. Although it may sound nostalgic, the word remains readily understood and adds a sense of absolute distinction.
Without equal; unsurpassed in quality, value, or achievement.
"The library's collection of medieval manuscripts is nonpareil."
Formal and somewhat dated; unmatched, unparalleled, and exceptional are more common in modern usage.
A person or thing without equal; also a standard of exceptional quality and, in North American English, a filled chocolate candy or an informal term for a large cannabis cigarette.
"The young violinist was the nonpareil of her generation."
The candy sense is chiefly North American. The cannabis sense is informal and regional.
Used when referring to multiple people or things without equal, or to several pieces of the filled chocolate candy.
"Among the finalists were several nonpareils of the competitive fencing circuit."
Literally French for “not equal,” nonpareil has become both a grand word for unmatched excellence and cannabis slang for an extra-large joint.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of nonpareil
Nonpareil entered English from French nonpareil, literally “not equal” or “without equal.” French nonpareil combines the negative prefix non- with pareil, “equal,” while pareil ultimately derives from Latin par, meaning “equal.” Related English words include peer, pair, par, and parity, all of which reflect the same Latin ancestry.
How nonpareil is actually used
As an adjective, nonpareil is formal and somewhat dated; unmatched, unparalleled, and exceptional are more common in contemporary English. The confectionery sense is chiefly North American. The cannabis sense is informal and regional slang.