Definition

1. Adjective:
   • True, genuine, or authentic: Used to describe something that is real and not false, counterfeit, or imaginary.
   • Often used as an intensifier: Used before a noun to emphasize that something is a very good or typical example of what is being mentioned, even if it is not literally true in the strictest sense.

Usage

• The adjective "veritable" is used to attribute truth or authenticity to a noun. When used as an intensifier, it means "being truly or very much so," often adding emphasis in a somewhat figurative way.
• It typically precedes the noun it modifies.
• Example structure: "a veritable [noun]".

Examples

• Meaning "Genuine or Authentic":
  • The museum displayed a veritable treasure from the ancient kingdom. (A real, authentic treasure.)
  • They discovered a veritable masterpiece hidden in the attic. (A true, genuine masterpiece.)
• Meaning "Used as an Intensifier":
  • After the storm, the backyard was a veritable swamp. (It was very much like a swamp.)
  • The buffet offered a veritable feast of international cuisine. (It was an impressive, feast-like spread.)

Advanced Usage

• "A veritable [something]": This common pattern emphasizes that the thing being described is a striking or perfect example of that category.
  • The small bookstore was a veritable labyrinth of shelves and corridors.
• "The veritable [something]": Less common, used to specify the one true or authentic instance.
  • He is considered the veritable father of modern psychology.

Variants and Related Words

• Veritably (adverb): In a true or genuine manner; used as an intensifier.
  • The garden was veritably overflowing with roses.
• Verity (noun): A true principle or belief; the state of being true or real.
  • He spoke with great verity and conviction.

Synonyms

• Authentic: Of undisputed origin; genuine.
• Bona fide: Made or carried out in good faith; authentic.
• Genuine: Truly what something is said to be; authentic.
• True: In accordance with fact or reality.

Antonyms

• Counterfeit: Made in exact imitation of something valuable with the intention to deceive; fake.
• False: Not according to truth or fact; incorrect.
• Fake: Not genuine; imitation or counterfeit.
• Bogus: Not genuine or true; fake.

Idioms and Fixed Phrases

• A veritable cornucopia: An abundant and diverse collection.
  • The market was a veritable cornucopia of fresh produce.
• A veritable who's who: A gathering of many important or famous people.
  • The gala event was a veritable who's who of the film industry.

Adjective

1. not counterfeit or copied
   • an authentic signature
   • a bona fide manuscript
   • an unquestionable antique
   • photographs taken in a veritable bull ring
2. often used as intensifiers
   • a regular morass of details
   • a regular nincompoop
   • he's a veritable swine