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.

Lamarck disputed this, arguing “that life at its essence is creative agency, that living beings, especially the smallest and humblest of them, continually remake the world,” as well as themselves.

From The Wall Street Journal

Age had scorched away all kindly feelings to leave only the fierce raven essence.

From Literature

In essence, seniors who thought they had found a safe harbor for their healthcare face the real possibility that they will no longer have adequate insurance.

From MarketWatch

The wandering narrative works because Mr. Hertling’s journal holds firm as the book’s center and essence.

From The Wall Street Journal

How big a change might be needed in the regulations to return the sport to something closer to its essence?

From BBC

essence

Example Sentences

Related Words