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paragon

noun/ˈpærəˌɡɑn/

a model of excellence or perfection of a kind

She is a paragon of kindness, always helping others in need.

modelexampleideal
word origin — from Middle English 'paragon', derived from Old Italian 'paragone', meaning 'touchstone' or 'example'

Proficient — Set 17

Set 17 of Proficient covers 5 words: paragon, labyrinth, fringe, posterity, zeal. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

  1. paragon · noun/ˈpærəˌɡɑn/

    a model of excellence or perfection of a kind

    She is a paragon of kindness, always helping others in need.

    Synonyms: model, example, ideal

    Origin: from Middle English 'paragon', derived from Old Italian 'paragone', meaning 'touchstone' or 'example'

  2. labyrinth · noun/ˈlæb.ə.rɪnθ/

    a complicated and intricate network of paths or passages

    The children played in the beautiful labyrinth of hedges at the garden.

    Synonyms: maze, network, intricate path

    Origin: from Latin 'labyrinthus', from Greek 'labyrinthos', possibly from 'labrys' meaning double-headed axe

  3. fringe · noun/frɪndʒ/

    a border or edge that is different from the main part

    The fringe of the carpet was worn out from years of use.

    Synonyms: edge, border, trim

    Origin: Middle English 'fringe', from Old French 'fringe', from Latin 'fringere' meaning 'to break, to rend'

  4. posterity · noun/pɑˈstɛr.ɪ.ti/

    all future generations of people

    We must protect the environment for the sake of posterity.

    Synonyms: descendants, future generations, heirs

    Origin: from Latin 'posteritas', meaning 'future generations', derived from 'posterus' meaning 'coming after'

  5. zeal · noun/zil/

    great energy or enthusiasm in pursuit of a cause or objective

    She worked with great zeal to help the animal shelter find homes for all the pets.

    Synonyms: enthusiasm, eagerness, passion

    Origin: From Latin 'zealum', meaning 'zeal', derived from Greek 'zelos', meaning 'ardor' or 'jealousy'