nonexistence

American  

[non-ig-zis-tuhns] / ˌnɒn ɪgˈzɪs təns /

noun

1. absence of existence.

2. a thing that has no existence.

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Other Word Forms

• nonexistent adjective

Etymology

Origin of nonexistence

First recorded in 1640–50; non- + existence

Example Sentences

The SEC declined to respond, with a spokesperson saying the agency doesn’t “comment on the existence or nonexistence of a possible investigation.”

From Barron's • Feb. 23, 2026

Its nonexistence is, ironically, the main thing to emerge so far from the document dump.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 11, 2026

But in Alexander, Thomas declared his view that these amendments are in fact narrow to the point of nonexistence, addressing “only matters relating to access to the ballot.”

From Slate • May 23, 2024

Since this plan cannot unfold without us, our nonexistence — to true believers — would have been inconceivable.

From Salon • Oct. 8, 2023

I had not settled in my mind whether I believed in God or not; His existence or nonexistence never worried me.

From "Black Boy" by Richard Wright