existence

American  

[ig-zis-tuhns] / ɪgˈzɪs təns /

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.

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existence British  

/ 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

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Other Word Forms

• postexistence noun

Etymology

Origin of existence

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

Example Sentences

The data matched expectations for a universe without sterile neutrinos, effectively ruling out the particle's existence.

From Science Daily

One of Musk’s goals is to extend human existence beyond Earth, which is one reason SpaceX sells “Occupy Mars External link” T-shirts.

From Barron's

Inspired, he started making his own beats, stitching together samples and genres to create a sonic collage reflecting his tumultuous London existence.

From BBC

The existence of the secret traitor had not gone down well with the three other traitors, with Hugo memorably commenting that he "does not require middle management".

From BBC

The existence of the CIA assessment was first reported by the Wall Street Journal.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• continuation
• presence
• reality
• survival
• world