essence
UK: ˈes.əns | US: ˈes.əns
n. the intrinsic nature or indispensable quality of something
n. a concentrated extract or fragrance
n. (philosophy) the attribute(s) that make an entity what it fundamentally is
The word "essence" traces back to Latin "essentia," derived from "esse" (to be). It entered Middle English via Old French, retaining its core philosophical meaning of "being" or "fundamental nature." The suffix "-ence" (from Latin "-entia") nominalizes the abstract quality. Historically, it reflects Aristotle’s concept of "ousia" (substance), later adapted by medieval scholars to describe a thing’s defining characteristics. The term’s evolution mirrors its philosophical weight—from metaphysical debates to everyday usage for core qualities or perfumed extracts.
The essence of democracy lies in equal participation.
Vanilla essence is commonly used in baking.
Philosophers debate whether consciousness is the essence of human identity.
Her speech captured the essence of the movement.
The perfume’s floral essence lingered in the air.