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

Though it once helped convince millions of the truth of spirit communication, her Victorian-era writing is so overdramatic, that today, most of the book reads as proof against spirit existence.

From Literature

The French government has neither confirmed nor denied the existence of a potential exchange deal.

From Barron's

The only thing I appreciated about pixies was that their very existence gave me hope that there was still gold in The Mountain.

From Literature

"These difficulties we are experiencing must be looked at clearly, their existence cannot be denied," he said.

From Barron's

Not intelligence, not behavior, not responsiveness, but the existence of an inner life: sensations, feelings, perceptions, thoughts — however minimal — that are experienced by someone.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• continuation
• presence
• reality
• survival
• world