in esse

[ in es-e; English in es-ee ]

adverb

, Latin.

1. in being; in actuality; in actual existence (contrasted wiith in posse ( def ) ).

in esse

/ ɪn ˈɛsɪ /

adjective

1. actually existing Compare in posse

Word History and Origins

Origin of in esse¹

Latin, literally: in being

Example Sentences

The sale of a manuscript letter cannot authorize a vendee to publish it without consent of the writer, and the receiver of a letter is perhaps bound to keep a letter private or destroy it, if so required by the writer, but this is a right difficult of enforcement if not doubtful in esse.

From Project Gutenberg

I must confess, however, staunch Tory of the most crusted and mediæval type though I be, that all this array of sovereigns in esse or in posse seems very dull, and bores me to yawning-point.

From Project Gutenberg

No urchin so ragged that he does not proclaim the printed wares of a millionaire in esse or in posse.

From Project Gutenberg

The political economist, Mr. President, deals with property in esse, and producers employed.

From Project Gutenberg

Esse, es′i, n. used in phrase In esse, in existence, opposed to In posse, in potentiality.

From Project Gutenberg