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essence

Syllabification: (es·sence)

Pronunciation: /ˈesəns/

Definition of essence

the intrinsic nature or indispensable quality of something, especially something abstract, that determines its character:conflict is the essence of drama
Philosophy a property or group of properties of something without which it would not exist or be what it is.
an extract or concentrate obtained from a particular plant or other matter and used for flavoring or scent.

Phrases

in essence: basically and without regard for peripheral details; fundamentally:in detail the class system is complex but in essence it is simple
of the essence: critically important:time will be of the essence

late Middle English: via Old French from Latin essentia, from esse 'be'

Definition of essence in the British & World English dictionary

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