-ence

1. a noun suffix equivalent to -ance, corresponding to the suffix -ent in adjectives: abstinence; continence; dependence; difference .

-ence

suffix forming nouns

1. indicating an action, state, condition, or quality

   patience

   residence

   benevolence

Word History and Origins

Origin of -ence¹

Middle English < Old French < Latin -entia, equivalent to -ent- -ent + -ia -y ³

Word History and Origins

Origin of -ence¹

via Old French from Latin -entia, from -ēns, present participial ending

Example Sentences

Of course circumstances make a differ ence in the desires of men, but the general original tendency is as stated.

From Project Gutenberg

Pres′ence-cham′ber, -room, the chamber or room in which a great personage receives company.

From Project Gutenberg

Folks calls 'im Laz'rus in ref'ence to de Bible chil' what riz up jes' same way lak', outen de daid col' tomb.

From Project Gutenberg

The refer ence to O-Kuni seems to me extremely severe; for her story is very beautiful and touching.

From Project Gutenberg

Well, sir, it didn't make no diff'ence whether we'd been did befo' or not, he 'lowed thet he wanted to see us vaccinated ag'in.

From Project Gutenberg