məs(t)
as in requirement
something necessary, indispensable, or unavoidable
exercise is a must if you want to stay healthy
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of must
Chantelle Lee,
Time,
30 Dec. 2025
Cheryl Wagemann,
InStyle,
23 June 2026
While running your air conditioner is likely a must, there are actually other ways to keep your home cooler that don't involve blasting your AC or a gigantic electric bill.
—
Molly Burford,
Southern Living,
22 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for must
Verb
The block party is free, but people who want to attend must RSVP.
—
Chantelle Lee,
Time,
30 Dec. 2025
Noun
Strappy sandals are a must for occasions, and this pair has added ankle support thanks to the front and back straps.
—
Cheryl Wagemann,
InStyle,
23 June 2026
While running your air conditioner is likely a must, there are actually other ways to keep your home cooler that don't involve blasting your AC or a gigantic electric bill.
—
Molly Burford,
Southern Living,
22 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for must
Recent Examples of Synonyms for must
Verb
-
My answer is: That leader shall stick with their principles.
-
Firms with over 10 employees shall be required to consult their employees or trade unions when formulating their out-of-work policies.
Noun
-
That means the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, which is the local enforcement agency for these requirements in the region, will be in charge of monitoring whether businesses are following the law.
-
Since then, the mussels have spread through California waterways, prompting mandatory boat inspections and decontamination requirements at lakes and reservoirs statewide.
Noun
-
In the next few days, Raikes said IRC teams will focus on getting basic necessities like food, water and shelter to those who need it, and to deliver medical supplies to health services.
-
In order to keep the necessities, like Bear Valley Community Hospital, online, BVES shut power off to businesses and homes starting Friday morning for several hours.
Noun
-
Handle power dynamics well by stating needs and listening for fears beneath reactions.
-
Instead, the space agency is planning a mission to rescue the telescope and extend its mission for several more years – negating the need to spend more money to replace the observatory, NASA said in a press release.
Noun
-
Corridors and the lobby are open-air, cleverly arranged to ventilate naturally with the wind, meaning no air-con necessary.
-
To avoid the hassle of scrounging in the cargo hold to access their necessaries and furry companions, when in the rearmost position, special storage bins for hand luggage or pet carriers (all of these accessories presumably Bentley branded) emerge from the floor.
Cite this Entry
“Must.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/must. Accessed 1 Jul. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
