Doesn’t “quint” mean “five”? What does that have to do with the meaning of “quintessential”?
Answer
“Essence” in this context is a synonym for “element”, and “essential” for “elemental”. In pre-atomic theory, there were four “known” elements or essences — Earth, Air, Fire and Water — and a putative fifth element (quinta essentia). The fifth element was believed to be superior to the others, and so, “quintessential” has come to mean something that is superior.
Attribution
Source : Link , Question Author : Daniel LeCheminant , Answer Author : Michael Scott Shappe