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

   she has a wretched existence

   a struggle for existence

3. something that exists; a being or entity
4. everything that exists, esp that is living

Other Words From

• postex·istence 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

While some tariffs have been in existence long before Trump's presidency, the U.S. enacted new tariffs during his first administration, such as the Section 301 tariffs that added taxes on certain imported goods from China.

From Salon

The country's military commander in chief wrote on Telegram that the country had faced 1,000 days of "extremely complex, fierce battle for our existence" and "destroying the enemy".

From BBC

“Driving around in the Faroe Islands is very essential to our existence,” says Rasmussen.

From Salon

Martin O'Malley, the commissioner of the Social Security Administration, empathizes all too well with the human suffering that necessitates the program’s existence.

From Salon

The survey defined displays of animal consciousness in its most basic form, meaning that they are aware of their own existence.

From Science Daily

Related Words

• continuation
• presence
• reality
• survival
• world