MUST-HAVE Synonyms: 79 Similar and Opposite Words

must-have 1 of 2

adjective

Definition of must-have

as in essential

impossible to do without aprons are must-have accessories for the cooking class

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

must-have

2 of 2

noun

ˈməst-ˌhav

as in must

something necessary, indispensable, or unavoidable hiking boots are a must-have for this trip

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-have

Noun

Keep scrolling for more travel food must-haves, like a collapsible water bottle, mini snack containers, and more. — Jamie Weissman, Better Homes & Gardens, 17 July 2026 With many of these sales ending in just a few days, now’s the time to shop warm-weather must-haves, travel-ready pieces, and everyday staples before the savings come to an end. — Nicol Natale, PEOPLE, 17 July 2026 Shop the whole body deodorant for $20, plus more of Lume’s must-haves, here. — Eva Thomas, InStyle, 16 July 2026 As far as safety is concerned, Alvarez says one item is a must-have. — Jessica Puckett, Condé Nast Traveler, 15 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for must-have

Recent Examples of Synonyms for must-have

Adjective

One of Ramboll’s innovations is to address reactive power, a component of electricity that does not perform useful work but is essential in maintaining electrical and magnetic fields and controlling voltage levels.

— Drew Robb, IEEE Spectrum, 16 July 2026
Proper watering is essential for healthy rose bushes and ensures vibrant, beautiful blooms in your garden.

— Samantha Johnson, Martha Stewart, 16 July 2026

Definition of essential

Noun

These old folks would rather be short than long, and their short sales (which are bets that the stocks will go down lower) are part of the fuel that makes owning at least some of these a must.

— Jim Cramer, Contributor, CNBC, 16 July 2026
For an elevated yet quintessential camp-like experience, High Hampton is a must.

— Cameron Beall, Southern Living, 16 July 2026

Definition of must

Noun

The extradition process requires a hearing before a US judge to determine whether legal requirements are met, and the brothers have the option to mount legal challenges.

— Lauren Mascarenhas, CNN Money, 20 July 2026
That means ensuring ballot questions are accurately summarized, comply with applicable legal standards, and satisfy constitutional requirements before they are certified.

— Robert Cordy, Boston Herald, 19 July 2026

Definition of requirement

Adjective

Player sales — which are planned for, are made on Newcastle’s terms and, where possible, at the point of maximum value — have become integral.

— Chris Weatherspoon, New York Times, 18 July 2026
Companies like Priority Pass are expanding their offerings to include diverse airport experiences such as dining, retail, and wellness, transforming airports from mere transit points into integral parts of the journey.

— Jeff Fromm, Forbes.com, 17 July 2026

Definition of integral

Noun

In prison, workers earn as little as pennies a day, and much of those earnings go toward purchasing necessities like postage and hygiene supplies at canteens, where prices have risen along with inflation.

— Amber Gaudet July 18, Charlotte Observer, 18 July 2026
On their face, retail apps are for shopping, places for consumers to buy clothes, household necessities or makeup.

— Gabrielle Fonrouge,Scott Zamost,Anna Gleason, CNBC, 17 July 2026

Definition of necessity

Adjective

According to a July 3 letter obtained by The Sacramento Bee, the city still needed to complete required rezoning, adopt the housing element and submit both to HCD before the department could certify the plan.

— Naomi Taxay, Sacbee.com, 17 July 2026
Plaintiffs alleged that the event promoters were negligent in failing to secure required permits, not providing adequate security or crowd control and misrepresenting the event as safe for families, according to the statement.

— Lillie Davidson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 16 July 2026

Definition of required

Adjective

Thanks to soccer, often called the world’s beautiful game, many found a needed distraction.

— Alfredo Corchado, Los Angeles Times, 11 July 2026
Add mulch to flower beds as the rain lets up for the season, so it won’t get washed away and will still retain needed moisture.

— Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 10 July 2026

Definition of needed

Browse Nearby Words

musters out

must-have

must-haves

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Style

“Must-have.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/must-have. Accessed 22 Jul. 2026.

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Synonyms of must-have

adjective

noun

Example Sentences

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