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

Silky slip dresses, layering basics, and must-have accessories are seeing major markdowns (up to 70% off). — Kristina Rutkowski, Vogue, 28 Aug. 2026

Tablets are becoming the must-have alternative to laptops and desktop computers. — Bestreviews, Mercury News, 27 Aug. 2026

Shop more beauty must-haves for fall at Nordstrom below including an anti-aging serum and travel-ready hand cream. — Izzy Baskette, PEOPLE, 27 Aug. 2026

Those preferences are shaped by AI tools, group chats and social feeds — and Zeta says a product that goes viral in a child’s feed in late August can move from unknown to must-have within 72 hours. — Ashley Lynch, Charlotte Observer, 26 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1839, in the meaning defined above