paragon

Summary

---

Merriam-Webster's Word of the Day — "Paragon"

Date: May 11, 2026
Host: Peter Sokolowski

---

Episode Overview

This episode explores the word paragon, delving into its meaning, formal usage, historical origins, and significance as a linguistic standard. Peter Sokolowski breaks down both the literal and figurative applications of the word, connecting its etymology to its modern sense as an exemplar or model.

---

Key Discussion Points & Insights

Definition and Usage

• Word: Paragon

• Spelling: P A R A G O N

• Part of Speech: Noun

• Definition:

  "A person or thing that is perfect or excellent in some way and should be considered a model or example to be copied." (Peter Sokolowski, 00:43)

• Usage Example:

  "With a bar staff locally renowned for its cocktails, curated French cuisine, an extensive champagne menu, and immaculately stylish atmosphere, Claude is the local paragon of elegance." (The Gazette of Cedar Rapids, quoted at 00:43)

---

Etymology and Historical Context

• Paragon originates from the Old Italian word paragone, meaning touchstone.
• Explanation of a touchstone:

  "A touchstone is a black stone that was formerly used to judge the purity of gold or silver. The metal was rubbed on the stone, and the color of the streak it left indicated its quality." (Peter Sokolowski, 00:43)

• The evolution of meaning: Both touchstone and paragon came to signify "a standard against which something should be judged".
• Breakdown of origins:
  • Greek verb parakonan: "to sharpen"
  • Prefix para: "alongside of"
  • Akone: "whetstone"

---

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• On the significance of the word:

  "In modern English, both touchstone and paragon have come to signify a standard against which something should be judged." (Peter Sokolowski, 01:27)

• On etymological roots:

  "Ultimately, paragon comes from the Greek verb paraconan, meaning to sharpen, from the prefix para, meaning alongside of, and akone, meaning whetstone." (Peter Sokolowski, 01:35)

---

Timestamps for Important Segments

• 00:43 — Introduction and definition of paragon, with usage example
• 01:00 — Explanation of the “touchstone” and its relation to paragon
• 01:27 — How paragon and touchstone came to signify standards
• 01:35 — Detailed origins from Greek and Italian

---

Language and Tone

The episode maintains Merriam-Webster’s signature clear, educational, and slightly formal tone, with Peter Sokolowski providing accessible explanations and historical context.

---

Additional Resources

• For expanded definitions and further word explorations, Peter encourages listeners to visit merriam-webster.com.

---

This episode provides not just a definition, but a memorable journey into the etymology and contemporary significance of "paragon," equipping listeners with both understanding and examples for using the word in daily life.

Transcript

[A]

Foreign. It's the word of the day for May 11th.

[B]

Insurance isn't one size fits all. That's why customers have enjoyed Progressive's name your price tool for years now. With the name your price tool, you tell them what you want to pay, and they'll show you options that fit your budget. So whether you're picking out your first policy or just looking for something that works better for you and your family, you're they make it easy to see your options. Visit progressive.com find a rate that works for you with the name your price tool Progressive Casualty Insurance company and affiliates Price and Coverage Match limited By state law,

[A]

today's word is paragon. Spelled P A R A G O N. Paragon is a noun. It's a formal word that refers to a person or thing that is perfect or excellent in some way and should be considered a model or example to be copied. Here's the word used in a sentence from the Gazette of Cedar Rapids. With a bar staff locally renowned for its cocktails, curated French cuisine, an extensive champagne menu and immaculately stylish atmosphere, Claude is the local paragon of elegance. Paragon comes from the old Italian word paragone, which literally means touchstone. A touchstone is a black stone that was formerly used to judge the purity of gold or silver. The metal was rubbed on the stone, and the color of the streak it left indicated its quality. In modern English, both touchstone and paragon have come to signify a standard against which something should be judged. Ultimately, paragon comes from the Greek verb paraconan, meaning to sharpen, from the prefix para, meaning alongside of, and akone, meaning whetstone. With your word of the day, I'm Peter Sokolowski.

[C]

Visit merriamwebster.com today for definitions, wordplay and trending word lookups.