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.
Top tailors in New York and Europe weigh in on the must-have information grooms need to bring to their tailoring appointments, and why Made-To-Measure and bespoke are worth the investment. Caroline Reilly, Forbes.com, 17 May 2026 Shop my Disneyland must-haves at Amazon, starting at just $3. Jamie Allison Sanders, PEOPLE, 16 May 2026 One of the best places to shop is Amazon, with prices as low as $6 on travel must-haves. Erin Cavoto, Travel + Leisure, 16 May 2026 Today, the Vita team has added a new must-have collection to the mix—a collaboration with interior designer Leanne Ford. Helena Madden, Martha Stewart, 15 May 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 22 May. 2026.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster