What does paragogical mean?
Paragogical is a rare formal adjective meaning exemplary, flawless, or so exceptionally good that it could serve as a model of perfection. It is associated with the word paragon, a person or thing regarded as an outstanding model of some quality. The adjective is usually applied to achievements, performances, designs, or conduct: a paragogical performance might be one that sets a new standard, while a paragogical example might inspire others through its excellence. The word can sound similar to pedagogical, but its focus is different: paragogical describes supreme quality, whereas pedagogical concerns instruction or methods of teaching. Although understandable in modern English, paragogical is chiefly literary and uncommon in ordinary conversation.
adjectiveExemplary or exceptionally perfect, as if belonging to the highest possible standard.
- Exemplary or exceptionally perfect, resembling an ideal model of excellence.
"Her paragogical performance set a new standard for the ensemble."
"Her paragogical performance set a new standard for the ensemble."
"The restored building became a paragogical example of elegant public architecture."
Paragogical may sound like pedagogical, but it praises excellence rather than describing the art of teaching.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does paragogical come from?
Paragogical was formed in English from paragon and the adjective-forming suffix -ical. Paragon came through French from Italian paragone and ultimately from Greek, in which it denoted a model or pattern. The same root also produced English words such as paragonic and paragonism, reflecting ideas associated with an outstanding model.
Related word forms
How paragogical is actually used
Rare and literary rather than everyday. It is normally used to describe a person, achievement, or example as exceptionally perfect, and should not be used merely to mean praiseworthy.
Easily confused with paragogical
Paragogical means exceptionally exemplary, whereas pedagogical means concerned with teaching or the methods of teaching.