must-have

noun

ˈməst-ˌhav 

: something that is essential to have or obtain

must-have adjective

Synonyms of must-have

• must
• requirement
• necessity
• essential

Examples of must-have in a Sentence

hiking boots are a must-have for this trip

Recent Examples on the Web

At Kingpins Amsterdam last week, industry experts discussed the must-have ingredients for scaling innovation. — Angela Velasquez, Footwear News, 23 Oct. 2026

The group says it’s shaped several must-haves by taking lessons from Washington’s failure to regulate social media. — Ashley Gold, semafor.com, 21 Oct. 2026

Leave it to Hollywood to turn salmon sperm into a beauty must-have. — Ryan Brennan, Charlotte Observer, 21 Oct. 2026

For an even more colorful choice, Reformation’s royal purple pair was a PFW must-have for Vogue Italia’s Francesca Ragazzi. — Laura Jackson, Vogue, 20 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1839, in the meaning defined above