MUST-HAVES Synonyms: 33 Similar and Opposite Words

must-haves

noun

plural of must-have

as in necessities

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

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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-haves From diapers and wipes to car seats, toys, feeding gear and back-to-school must-haves, Amazon's biggest sale of the year includes discounts on products families use every day. —

ABC News, 20 June 2026 Score savings on a lightweight carry-on bag with an expandable design, a travel backpack with comfortable straps, a handy electronics organizer, and more must-haves. —

Isabel Garcia, PEOPLE, 18 June 2026 Consider more of the actor’s makeup must-haves, below. —

Sophie Wirt, InStyle, 12 June 2026 Ahead, designers share their favorite covered porch ideas, including décor must-haves, weather-proof materials, and more. —

Shagun Khare, Martha Stewart, 11 June 2026 Who can resist a good deal on thrifted kitchen must-haves like a cast-iron skillet or a set of servingware? —

Heather Bien, Southern Living, 5 June 2026 Others called out its shepherd’s pie, bangers and mash, and a Sunday roast dinner as must-haves. —

Stacey Leasca, Travel + Leisure, 3 June 2026 Free People’s take on the exaggerated shape arrives in the form of these bedroom must-haves that can also be donned outside of it. —

Stacia Datskovska, Footwear News, 26 May 2026 Herro, Ware and the three first-rounders would likely be the starting point must-haves for Milwaukee. —

Greg Cote may 25, Miami Herald, 25 May 2026

Recent Examples of Synonyms for must-haves

Noun

For many people, those monthly benefits will serve as a critical source of their overall income, helping to cover the costs of everything from housing and healthcare and everyday necessities.

— Angelica Leicht, CBS News, 16 June 2026
Add trays to the top to organize keys, mail, leashes, and other everyday necessities, and use the bottom for decorative storage baskets, blankets, board games, and more.

— Shea Simmons, Southern Living, 13 June 2026