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

Sediment analysis confirmed the existence of these ancient water sources, which would have provided essential support for human groups venturing into the desert interior and allowed them to survive in this challenging environment.

Read more on Science Daily

On being told of Tilly’s existence by an interviewer for Variety, “Please stop,” she insisted, while demanding that mainline studios and talent agencies refrain from trafficking with AI actresses.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Mr. Samson also examines the city of Chicago, which owes its existence to the dogged human search for connection.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

“Totalitarianism demands the continuous alteration of the past and in the long run probably demands a disbelief in the very existence of objective truth.”

Read more on Salon

Music may be permitted to speak not of specifics but the essence of grief, a collective cherishing of existence.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• continuation 
• presence 
• reality 
• survival 
• world