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Definition of essence

essence

/ˈɛs.əns/
es · sence
Adverb:essentially
•
Plural:essences
•
Adjective:essential
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essence Lexical Profile

essence Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The intrinsic nature or indispensable quality of something, especially something abstract, that determines its character.

Example

"Conflict is the very essence of dramatic storytelling."

2

An extract or concentrate obtained from a plant or other matter and used for flavoring or scent.

Example

"The baker added a few drops of vanilla essence to the cake batter."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for essence

• Nearby Words

essay
essayist
essen
essence
essential
essentially
essentialness

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed via Old French from Latin 'essentia' ('being, essence'), coined as a philosophical translation of Ancient Greek 'ousia' from the Latin verb 'esse' ('to be').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Essence. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/essence
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