nonexistence

[non-ig-zis-tuhns]

noun

1. absence of existence.

2. a thing that has no existence.

Other Word Forms

• nonexistent adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of nonexistence¹

First recorded in 1640–50; non- + existence

Example Sentences

The other characters keep calling him by the wrong name, and he talks about his nonexistence in voiceovers at both the beginning and end of the movie.

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Tariffs, like Schrödinger’s cat, flicker between existence and nonexistence as whispers of their imposition haunt both Mexico and Canada.

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

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He bemoaned what he said was the nonexistence of editors.

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An SEC spokesperson said the agency "does not comment on the existence or nonexistence of a possible investigation".

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