Paragon
hardPositive tonePAIR-uh-gon
noun
Definition
a model of excellence or perfection
Memory hook
PARAGON sounds like 'pair of gons' but think 'a perfect PARAGON dragon' that every other creature aspires to be: the flawless model.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“She was held up as a paragon of integrity by everyone in the department.”
“No leader is a paragon; even the best make blunders.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“She was held up as a ______ of integrity by everyone in the department.”
Show answer
paragon
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Paragon is a hard-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "epitome" or "exemplar" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "mediocrity".
Related GRE Words
paradigm
A typical example or pattern of something; a model
exemplary
Serving as a desirable model; representing the best of its kind
approbation
official or warm approval and praise
deprecate
to express strong disapproval of; to belittle
egregious
conspicuously and outrageously bad
embodiment
A tangible or visible form of an idea, quality, or feeling
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