essence
noun
es·sence
ˈe-sᵊn(t)s
1
a
: the permanent as contrasted with the accidental element of being
b
: the individual, real, or ultimate nature of a thing especially as opposed to its existence
a painting that captures the essence of the land
c
: the properties or attributes by means of which something can be placed in its proper class or identified as being what it is
2
: the most significant element, quality, or aspect of a thing or person
the essence of the issue
3
: one that possesses or exhibits a quality in abundance as if in concentrated form
she was the essence of punctuality
4
a(1)
: a constituent or derivative possessing the special qualities (as of a plant or drug) in concentrated form
also
: a preparation of such an essence or a synthetic substitute
(2)
: a volatile substance or constituent (as of perfume)
5
: something that exists : entity
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Merriam-Webster unabridged
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