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Definitions

essence

[es-uhns] / ˈɛs əns /
NOUN
heart, significance
Synonyms
STRONGEST
aspect basis bottom line character core crux element lifeblood meaning nature principle quality reality root soul spirit structure substance
STRONG
attribute backbone base being bottom burden caliber constitution entity essentiality fiber form fundamentals germ grain kernel life marrow meat nitty-gritty nub nucleus pith point property quiddity quintessence stuff timber vein
WEAK
be-all and end-all chief constituent essentia main idea name of game virtuality
Antonyms
STRONG
abstract exterior exteriority outside top
NOUN
distillate, concentrate
Synonyms
STRONGEST
scent
STRONG
balm cologne drug effusion elixir extract fragrance juice liquor perfume potion spirits tincture
Antonyms
STRONG
stench stink

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

In essence: Size shouldn’t buy special treatment, but it does.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 3, 2026

This was the essence of the Prime Minister's message in his BBC interview today.

From BBC • May 2, 2026

In essence, crypto would become more important as those agents use blockchain-based payment systems instead of traditional banking services.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 28, 2026

Time is of the essence, say top EU officials.

From Barron's • Apr. 28, 2026

The word that captured the essence of the Virginians’ political mentality was consolidation, as in “the dreaded consolidation that was denied by the friends of the new government, when it was under consideration.”

From "Founding Brothers: The Revolutionary Generation" by Joseph J. Ellis

Vocabulary lists containing essence

Unit 2: Pivotal Words and Phrases

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"Mother Tongue" by Amy Tan

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"Love's Vocabulary," Vocabulary from the essay

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