nonesuch
UK[ˈnʌnsʌtʃ]US[ˈnʌnˌsʌtʃ]
n
a person or thing that is regarded as perfect or excellent, without an equal.
Morpheme Breakdown
none
such
none
not one, no
such
of that kind, so
Etymology
the word 'nonesuch' is a transparent compound formed from two common english words, 'none' and 'such'. it emerged in the late 16th century, directly describing something of which there is 'none such'—meaning nothing else of that kind exists. its literal sense of 'an unrivalled person or thing' has remained remarkably stable, evolving from a descriptive phrase into a single lexical unit signifying a paragon or a model of excellence.
Analysis
Structure: none + such
none (from old english 'nān', meaning 'not one, no') + such (from old english 'swylc', meaning 'of that kind, so')
Examples
the garden was planted as a nonesuch, a model for all others to follow.
in her field, she is considered a nonesuch, unparalleled in skill and innovation.
the antique vase was a true nonesuch, with craftsmanship never seen again.