nonpareil
UK: ˌnɒnpəˈreɪl | US: ˌnɑːnpəˈreɪl
n. 1. A person or thing that has no equal; unparalleled excellence.
n. 2. A small, flat chocolate disc covered with sugar sprinkles.
adj. 3. Having no match or equal; unrivaled.
nonpareil = non<not> + pareil<equal>
- non (from Latin non): A prefix meaning "not."
- pareil (from Old French pareil, meaning "equal" or "similar," derived from Latin pariculus, diminutive of par "equal").
Etymology Origin:
The word nonpareil entered English in the late 15th century from Old French, where non pareil literally meant "not equal." It reflects the Latin roots non (negation) and par (equal), emphasizing something beyond comparison. Over time, it evolved to describe both unmatched excellence (e.g., "a nonpareil artist") and, whimsically, the tiny sugar-sprinkled candies (19th century), metaphorically suggesting their uniqueness.
Shakespeare is often regarded as the nonpareil of English literature.
She decorated the cake with colorful nonpareils.
His nonpareil skills in diplomacy earned him global respect.
The boutique sells nonpareil handmade jewelry.
As a chef, her creativity is nonpareil in the industry.