existence

[ig-zis-tuhns]

noun

1. the state or fact of existing; being.

2. continuance in being or life; life.

   a struggle for existence.

3. mode of existing.

   They were working for a better existence.

4. all that exists.

   Existence shows a universal order.

5. something that exists; entity; being.

existence

/ ɪɡˈzɪstəns /

noun

1. the fact or state of existing; being

2. the continuance or maintenance of life; living, esp in adverse circumstances

   a struggle for existence

   she has a wretched existence

3. something that exists; a being or entity

4. everything that exists, esp that is living

Other Word Forms

• postexistence noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of existence¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English word from Late Latin word ex(s)istentia. See exist, -ence

Example Sentences

He said removing national oversight, which had been in existence until 2018, meant safeguarding issues were more likely to arise.

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Now, the existence of a second golden toilet has been revealed which is due to go under the hammer at Sotheby's in New York City on 18 November.

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He believed that the modern world owed its entire existence to ancient farms, when early humans first started growing their food.

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Beckett’s works defy easy exegesis, but as in many of his other plays, “Endgame” presents us with stylized images of the aimless burdens of existence, the isolation that can be little eased by companionship.

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Yet Amélie, who earnestly narrates events as though each fragment of existence is an urgent matter, is perfectly content in her bubble.

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Related Words

• continuation 
• presence 
• reality 
• survival 
• world