essence
noun
[ ˈɛs(ə)ns ]
• the intrinsic nature or indispensable quality of something, especially something abstract, which determines its character.
• "conflict is the essence of drama"
Similar:
quintessence,
soul,
spirit,
ethos,
nature,
life,
lifeblood,
core,
heart,
centre,
crux,
nub,
nucleus,
kernel,
marrow,
meat,
pith,
gist,
substance,
principle,
central part,
fundamental quality,
basic quality,
essential part,
intrinsic nature,
sum and substance,
reality,
actuality,
quiddity,
esse,
nitty-gritty,
• an extract or concentrate obtained from a plant or other matter and used for flavouring or scent.
• "vanilla essence"
Similar:
extract,
concentrate,
concentration,
quintessence,
distillate,
elixir,
abstraction,
decoction,
juice,
tincture,
solution,
suspension,
dilution,
scent,
perfume,
Origin:
late Middle English: via Old French from Latin essentia, from esse ‘be’.
