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Glite Dictionary
chef-d'oeuvre

chef-d'oeuvre

1 9.9
A very great work of art like a painting or novel that shows great skill
  • noun
  • /ʃɛf ˈdɜːvr/
  • Literature
translation icon : obra maestra
  • After years of dedication, the sculptor finally unveiled his masterpiece, a magnificent chef-d'oeuvre of marble.

Examples

  • Many critics consider this novel a literary chef-d'oeuvre that will be remembered for generations.

  • Do you have a name for this, if I may be allowed a Gallic pun, this chef-d'oeuvre?

    On a Clear Day You Can See Forever (1970)

  • I remembered my mother saying he was a priceless chef d'oeuvre, a gift she'd given herself.

    Fiction book (1999)

  • The artist's latest painting is a stunning chef-d'oeuvre that captivated everyone at the gallery.

Synonyms

masterpiece
vschef-d'oeuvre
156 3.8

A very good painting, book, or performance that shows a person's best work

is used for outstanding art or craftsmanship rather than personal best
work of art
vschef-d'oeuvre
86 3.5

An object like a painting or sculpture that people think is beautiful and made with skill

is reserved for truly outstanding works not every artistic object
masterwork
vschef-d'oeuvre
5.7

Made with very great skill and quality

is judged as an outstanding work rather than focusing on production skill

How Excellent

chef-d'oeuvre
  • Literature
1 9.9
fantastic job
23 1.9
notable
112 3.7

Surface Forms

chef-d'oeuvre singular
chef-d'oeuvres plural

Etymology

The word chef-d'oeuvre comes from French parts chef meaning 'head' or 'chief', like the English word chief, and oeuvre meaning 'work'. So a chef-d'oeuvre is literally the 'head' or best 'work' of an artist, which is why it means a masterpiece.