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.
From plane-ready outfits and supportive shoes built for long sightseeing days to chic luggage, must-have travel bags, and tech that keeps everything charged, tracked, and stress-free, this sale covers every corner of your packing list. Chaise Sanders, Travel + Leisure, 5 Feb. 2026 The shoe is an essential for transitional dressing; shop must-have styles like the Blondo Sierra Waterproof Over-the-Knee Boots and Silent D Block-Heel Knee-High Boots. Eva Thomas, InStyle, 5 Feb. 2026 On her personal Instagram and TikTok accounts, Hirshleifer-Penn often shares her own designer outfits and must-have items, a Celine calfskin midi skirt with a gourmette chain fastening one day, a military-green Saint Laurent jacket with a stand collar the next. Kati Chitrakorn, CNN Money, 4 Feb. 2026 In the era of collaboration, globalization, and entrepreneurship, EQ surpassed IQ as the must-have aptitude for an interconnected world. Big Think, 3 Feb. 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

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Cite this Entry

“Must-have.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/must-have. Accessed 10 Feb. 2026.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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