Paragon

Par"a*gon, v. t. [Cf. OF. paragonner, F. parangonner.]

1. To compare; to parallel; to put in rivalry or emulation with. [Obs.] Sir P. Sidney.

2. To compare with; to equal; to rival. [R.] Spenser.

In arms anon to paragon the morn,
The morn new rising.

3. To serve as a model for; to surpass. [Obs.]

He hath achieved a maid
That paragons description and wild fame.

Par"a*gon, v. i. To be equal; to hold comparison. [R.]

Few or none could . . . paragon with her.

Par"a*gon (?), n. [OF. paragon, F. parangon; cf. It. paragone, Sp. paragon, parangon; prob. fr. Gr. ? to rub against; para` beside + ? whetstone; cf. LGr. ? a polishing stone.] 1. A companion; a match; an equal. [Obs.] Spenser.

Philoclea, who indeed had no paragon but her sister.

2. Emulation; rivalry; competition. [Obs.]

Full many feats adventurous
Performed, in paragon of proudest men.

3. A model or pattern; a pattern of excellence or perfection; as, a paragon of beauty or eloquence. Udall.

Man, . . . the paragon of animals !

The riches of sweet Mary's son,
Boy-rabbi, Israel's paragon.

4. (Print.) A size of type between great primer and double pica. See the Note under Type.