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.

While the characters on paper are pretty much types, each actor projects the essence of the part, adding enough extra personality to suggest a real person.

From Los Angeles Times

In essence, fire became the centerpiece of every scene — and a character with its own escalating drama.

From Los Angeles Times

He has drawn on many themes over the years, from the American West to Savile Row, but he made them all his own, embodying the essence of classic American style.

From The Wall Street Journal

I conclude not with a joke but with a proverb at the essence of most Jewish jokes: What is as whole as a Jew with a broken heart?

From The Wall Street Journal

However, McElligott reckons that this narrative of more skeptical AI thinking has been used to explain what in essence is simply old fashioned profit-taking after a strong run.

From MarketWatch

essence

Example Sentences

Related Words