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
Rebecca Norris, InStyle, 8 June 2026
And last but certainly not least, the sunscreen has a sheer, buildable tint and a feather-light texture that melts into the skin and feels virtually weightless—a must for Southern summers with intense heat and harsh humidity.
—Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 5 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
Hot pink is one of the hottest colors of summer, so this short pink floral mani is a must in our book.
—Rebecca Norris, InStyle, 8 June 2026
And last but certainly not least, the sunscreen has a sheer, buildable tint and a feather-light texture that melts into the skin and feels virtually weightless—a must for Southern summers with intense heat and harsh humidity.
—Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 5 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.—
Alla Adam,
Forbes,
27 Jan. 2023
-
Firms with over 10 employees shall be required to consult their employees or trade unions when formulating their out-of-work policies.—
Faustine Ngila,
Quartz,
26 Jan. 2023
Noun
-
Providers must also cover rent or mortgage payments, insurance, food, utilities, supplies, maintenance and regulatory requirements.—
Théoden Janes,
Charlotte Observer,
11 June 2026
-
The interim final rule released by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services means being sick with extreme exhaustion and memory challenges related to her treatments may not be enough for Brandon to evade the new work requirements.—
ABC News,
ABC News,
11 June 2026
Noun
-
Nearly a year ago, Estrella was found wandering alone on the streets of Denver without access to necessities, including fresh water.—
Jasmine Arenas,
CBS News,
12 June 2026
-
Councilmember Jordan Botta, who sponsored the bill, said the legislation was driven by years of hearing from tenants living without basic necessities like gas, water or reliable air conditioning.—
Gabby Sartori,
USA Today,
12 June 2026
Noun
-
The tool eliminates the need for traditional public health data reports and fact sheets, which are limited to specific time periods and health categories.—
Velvet Wu
June 5,
Sacbee.com,
6 June 2026
-
Consider starting a light brainstorm with a teammate, using a quick sketch to express needs before words get heavy.—
Tarot.com,
The Orlando Sentinel,
6 June 2026
Noun
-
Corridors and the lobby are open-air, cleverly arranged to ventilate naturally with the wind, meaning no air-con necessary.—
Duncan Madden,
Forbes.com,
19 Apr. 2026
-
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.—
Brett Berk,
Robb Report,
8 July 2025
Cite this Entry
“Must.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/must. Accessed 13 Jun. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
