The choicest individual or individuals among a number of persons or things; ‘the pick’.

A precious or valuable thing; a virtuous or highly esteemed person; a fine example or type; a pertinent or wise saying (frequently in pearl of wisdom…

As a mass noun: a fine example of something. Obsolete. rare.

That which is specially chosen or to be chosen on account of its excellence, the preferable part of anything, the ‘pick’, ‘flower’, elite.

That which is chosen or selected as the best; the choicest individual, kind, specimen, etc.

figurative. The most excellent element or part; the best of its kind; the choice part; the quintessence.

A wreath, crown, etc. worn as a mark of distinction. figurative. The principal ornament, the thing most prized, ‘glory’. Obsolete.

figurative. Usually with the. The most excellent example of something; the embodiment or model of a particular quality.

The choice part; the select essence.

An act of choosing or selecting; a choice; the right or opportunity to make a choice. Frequently with of.

phrases. to pin the basket: to conclude the matter (obsolete). to be left in the basket: to remain unchosen, or to the last (like the worst apples…