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

Scientists have found more evidence in recent years to confirm the existence of a northern San Andreas fault earthquake in 1700 — right around the time of the Cascadia earthquake.

From Los Angeles Times

He isn't misunderstood because he behaves badly; he's misunderstood because his existence unsettles old certainties about who gets to define respect.

From BBC

The laws don’t do any good if the people equipped to help aren’t aware of them, or the women who are in danger don’t know about their existence.

From Salon

They grumble, especially those elected for the first time last year, about a leader's office lacking in direction, fight, even a willingness to acknowledge their existence.

From BBC

BBC News has not been able to independently verify the existence of such a contract.

From BBC

Related Words

• continuation 
• presence 
• reality 
• survival 
• world