entity

American  

[en-ti-tee] / ˈɛn tɪ ti /

noun

plural

entities

1. something that has a real existence; thing.

   corporeal entities.

2. being or existence, especially when considered as distinct, independent, or self-contained.

   He conceived of society as composed of particular entities requiring special treatment.

3. essential nature.

   The entity of justice is universality.

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entity British  

/ ˈɛntɪtətɪv, ˈɛntɪtɪ /

noun

1. something having real or distinct existence; a thing, esp when considered as independent of other things

2. existence or being

3. the essence or real nature

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Other Word Forms

• entitative adjective
• entitatively adverb

Etymology

Origin of entity

First recorded in 1590–1600; from Medieval Latin entitās, from enti-, stem of ēns “being” (present participle of esse “to be”; essence ( def. ) ) + -tās -ty ²

Example Sentences

The net product is a polished defense of Jackson’s impact as a separate entity from the machine her father constructed that also answers questions that have dogged her throughout her career.

From Salon

“If they pay a claim, or even investigate it, and the vessel is linked to sanctioned entities, they could face very serious consequences.”

From The Wall Street Journal

Human knowledge is not a discrete entity like a file on a computer.

From Salon

The majority of companies that make up the utilities sector of the S&P 500 are regulated entities that haven’t seen explosive growth.

From The Wall Street Journal

The transaction took place offshore through an entity registered in the Isle of Man, the people said.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• body
• individual