rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryexistenceBeing real or alive
noun

existence

ig-ZIS-tuhns/ɪɡˈzɪstəns/

The state of being real or alive.

The tiny sprout reveals the existence of new life in the soil.

Tiny living sprout emerging from soil.
Etymology
exLatinforth, out
+istLatincause to stand
+enceLatinstate or condition

The underlying image is standing forth or coming to light, which developed into the broader sense “be.” The noun ending turns that idea into a state or fact: existence is being real, not necessarily being visible.

In context

Jordan B Peterson7:06
you're benevolently predisposed to existence itself, to being itself. And that would be life, your life, other people's lives, lives, life in general.
The Sermon on the Mount | Lecture One (Official) | Peterson Academy

More examples

  • The old photographs confirm the building's existence before the fire.
  • Several species face threats to their continued existence.
  • The new law brings a national registry into existence.

Forms

existence

exist verb — To be real or alive.

existential adjective — Relating to existence or human life.

Similar words

reality
Emphasizes what is real rather than imagined or supposed.
life
Specifically concerns being alive, rather than simply being real.