Meaning & Definition of word "Essence"

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    Essence

    /ˈɛs.əns/

    noun:

    • 1. The intrinsic nature or indispensable quality of something, especially something abstract, that determines its character.
      • Example: The essence of democracy is the participation of the people in governance.
    • 2. A substance in concentrated form obtained from a plant or other matter and used for flavoring or perfuming.
      • Example: She added a few drops of vanilla essence to the cake batter.
    • 3. The basic, real, and invariable nature of a thing or its significant individual feature or features.
      • Example: In essence, the project aims to improve community engagement and sustainability.
    • 4. A fundamental or elemental principle or quality.
      • Example: The essence of her argument was that education should be accessible to everyone.
    • 5. The quality of being; existence.
      • Example: In his poetry, he often explores the essence of life and love.

    Etymology

    From Latin 'essentia', from 'essens', present participle of 'esse', meaning 'to be'.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    the essence of:

    the most important quality or aspect of something.

    capture the essence:

    to represent the fundamental nature of something.

    in essence:

    used to describe the basic, real, or essential nature of something.

    Related Words

    essential:

    absolutely necessary or extremely important.

    quintessential:

    representing the most perfect or typical example of a quality or class.

    existence:

    the fact or state of living or having objective reality.

    Slang Meanings of essence

    Meaning: The most important part or aspect of something.

    Example Sentence: In the essence of teamwork, communication is key.

    Meaning: A high concentration of something that defines its character.

    Example Sentence: That café has the essence of Paris.