must-have

noun

Synonyms of must-havenext
: something that is essential to have or obtain
must-have adjective

Examples of must-have in a Sentence

hiking boots are a must-have for this trip
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Ahead, interior designers break down the must-haves that make a mudroom the organizational workhorse of the home. Michelle Mastro, The Spruce, 4 July 2026 Safe to say, the primer is now an everyday must-have in my routine. Alyssa Morin, InStyle, 3 July 2026 And as for must-have travel gear, the Miami Carry-on Travelers 6-piece Organizational Packing Cubes will prove to be game-changing for staying organized on the go. Merrell Readman, Travel + Leisure, 3 July 2026 Kane feels like a must-have at this stage in the competition, with Haaland unlikely to disrupt that, with Kylian Mbappe and Lionel Messi also boasting six goals in the tournament at the time of writing. Holly Shand, New York Times, 2 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for must-have

Word History

First Known Use

1839, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of must-have was in 1839

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Must-have.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/must-have. Accessed 5 Jul. 2026.

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