rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryexistentActually existing
adjective

existent

ig-ZIS-tunt/ɪɡˈzɪstənt/

Having actual existence or reality.

The existent apple casts a shadow, unlike the faintly outlined imaginary one.

Real ripe apple on table casting shadow beside faint imagined apple outline.
Etymology
existLatinemerge; exist
+entLatinpresent participle

Whether formed from “existence” or the Latin participle, the word rests on existere, originally “stand forth” or “emerge.” That verb also came to mean “exist,” connecting coming into view with having actual being.

In context

Lazarus EOTC8:32
the Divine Essence is eternally existent there never having been a time in which it did not exist
The Holy Trinity (Part 1/3) - On His Divine Essence

More examples

  • Only two copies of the original manuscript are still existent.
  • The proposal would replace all currently existent safety rules.
  • The debate concerns whether these particles are actually existent.

Forms

existent

exist verb — To have actual being or reality.

existence noun — The state of having actual being.

Similar words

existing
The more usual choice for things that currently exist.
real
Contrasts what exists with what is imagined or artificial.
actual
Emphasizes what is true in fact rather than hypothetical.